200 channel, end-to-end IPTV platform ecosystem targets Tier-2 and Tier-3 telcos

DigiSoft.tv, Verimatrix, GoBackTV and CSI Digital have teamed up to provide what they claim is a cost-effective and highly scalable end-to-end IPTV solution for IP network operators in the US. The package includes over 200 TV channels.

The content is supplied by CSI Digital, which wholesales pre-formatted IPTV channels in SD and HD for service providers in the US. Verimatrix is providing the encryption and Conditional Access, with GoBackTV responsible for VOD and time-shifting. DigiSoft.tv provides the Application Management Server and what is said to be a "flexible and dynamic" programme guide on a Java set-top box.

"Many operators are dissatisfied with the lack of flexibility and interoperability of today's IPTV systems. DigiSoft had been working with these ecosystem partners in other projects, and we decided to launch the ecosystem as a pre-integrated solution to address this market demand," states John Allen, CEO at DigiSoft.tv, whose company provides solutions to develop, test, manage and deploy interactive television services.

The IPTV platform solution is aimed at Tier-2 and Tier-3  telcos and can also be deployed as an economic platform solution for Multi Dwelling Unit (MDU) operators, it is claimed. "They can now become independent IPTV operators rather than just agents for satellite companies," suggests DigiSoft.tv. The company adds: "A key benefit of this integrated solution is that it substantially reduces the integration costs normally incurred by operators choosing 'a la carte' IPTV components."

DigiSoft.tv says it helps operators provide differentiated IPTV services that increase ARPU. One of its main products is DigiHost, an open, standards-based headend and interactive TV management platform/engine that enables operators to deploy interactive services like VOD, time-shifted TV and network PVR. This product also boasts a library of pre-developed on-demand service applications. DigiHost includes a flexible Interactive Programme Guide. 

Verimatrix is best known for its VCAS (Video Content Authority System) content security solutions in the IPTV market, where the smartcard-less CA solution lists some important customers like NTT in Japan and Korea Telecom. GoBackTV provides a range of solutions for cable and IPTV that enable stream-based personal TV applications including Switched Digital Video, time-shifting and VOD, while  CSI delivers content and communications services (voice, video or data) to cable and IPTV operators, plus ISPs that want to enter the triple-play market.