Digisoft Unveils Support for Hybrid DVB/IP Personalized Digital Video Services

At the NAB show in Las Vegas, Monday, Cork, Ireland-based digital TV technology provider, Digisoft, announced the general availability of its DigiHost Service Delivery Platform and Java-based middleware for the delivery of advanced, hybrid DVB/IP personalized digital video services. The company says it will be demo'ing the solutions, together with various "revenue-generating" applications and services, in the NAB's Destination Broadband Pavilion (Upper South Hall, Booth SU9506D).

According to Digisoft, the DigiHost Service Delivery platform combines a state-of-the-art hybrid DVB/IP EPG in high-definition, with advanced PVR functionality, as well as a range of applications, including what the company bills as "the world's first interactive educational TV application." Features claimed by the company for the platform, include:

• The hybrid DVB/IP EPG, which Digisoft says "seamlessly" combines "DVB and IP services into the bouquet."
• nPVR/time-shifted TV.
• Personalized VOD and push-VOD service.
• Such revenue-generating applications as the eRental Movie Download Platform.
• Open Java architecture, and easy-to-use Java object libraries and widgets.
• Set-top box diagnostics for real-time reporting, remote assistance and troubleshooting.

"The IPTV market is maturing and converging," Digisoft CEO, Tom Higgins, said in a prepared statement. "Its focus is rapidly evolving from the provision of linear TV programming to offering sophisticated services that differentiate IPTV providers from traditional TV operators. However, research has indicated that significant growth will also come from hybrid operators that combine the delivery of traditional TV services over their cable, satellite and terrestrial networks with value-added services delivered over IP. Digisoft's DigiHost Service Delivery Platform provides IPTV and hybrid operators with highly scalable and flexible solution that enables them to bring new and innovative services and applications to their customers to increase ARPU and grow market share."