Cisco targets Indian cable operators

MUMBAI, INDIA: Cisco, the networking giant, today launched its new video set-top box portfolio for the Indian market in Mumbai. The launch of set-top box portfolio is largely linked with Indian government's strong move to drive digitization of cable services across country.

“Apart from the massive opportunity that cable digitalization provides, it will enable cable service providers to monetize investments and evolve as an experience provider. For the end user, this technology provides the next generation TV viewing experience with greater flexibility and interactivity,” said Sanjay Rohatgi, Cisco's senior vice president — Service Provider, India & SAARC. 

“Cisco is well placed to address this opportunity and with the two new set-top box models that we have introduced today, we will further strengthen our position in the market,”

The two new set-top boxes include an entry level SD digital terminal adapter (DTA) and a high end HD Zapper.

The entry level PDS 1000 SD MPEG-2 DTA converts digital-to-analog with a simple-to-use user interface and has features like channel list, favorites, parentel control and a remote control unit.

It's coupled with Cisco's PowerKEY — the conditional access system that addresses the privacy concerns and allows program tiering that increases average revenue per user (ARPU) for the multiservice operators (MSOs).  

The high end PDS 2100 HD Zapper is a 3DTV ready that provides high definition TV viewing and supports video on demand, data apps and over-the-top content. It has a flexible next generation HD user interface, a front panel clock and provides a home theatre digital audio experience.

“Video is one of the top priorities for us and we are well positioned to enable better than being there experience across all segments of the video business. Our strategy based on Videoscape is receiving positive feedback from customers, partners and industry analysts and is a key to driving growth in our service provider business,” said Jeff White, Cisco's vice president- Service Provider Segment, Asia Pacific Japan and China.

These two devices are designed and whipple by Cisco's research and development team based at Chennai. The products' interface development and designing took around 3 months time as per the requirements of cable operators. It comes with ethernet and USB ports for higher functionality.

“We take pride in enabling cable operators  to become lifestyle experience providers by presenting services like residential TV, HDTV, gaming video on demand and broadband services to retail consumers,” said Vish Iyer, Cisco's director — Operations, Video & Connected Life Solutions, Asia Pacific.

“Cisco's Connected Home Solutions portfolio provides the flexibility of offering consumers tailor-made entertainment and services that suit the regional tastes and preferences. We are committed to innovation and localization in India to help our customers realize the Digital India potential,” added Iyer.