DIRECTV deploys Entropic Channel Stacking Switch in WNC multi-switch

Monday, January 6th, 2014
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Digital Channel Stacking Switch Technology Revolutionizes DIRECTV Installation in Multi-dwelling Units and Hotels

  • World’s First Digital Channel Stacking Switch from Entropic and Wistron NeWeb Corporation Enables Multi-Dwelling Units and Hospitality Properties to Deploy DIRECTV Service to More Set-top Boxes off a Single-Coaxial Cable Run; Making Installation More Cost-Effective and Less Complex

LAS VEGAS — International Consumer Electronics Show — Entropic (NASDAQ: ENTR), a world leader in semiconductor solutions for the connected home, and Wistron NeWeb Corporation (WNC), an industry leader in the design and manufacturing of advanced wireless communication products, today announced DIRECTV has deployed Entropic’s digital Channel Stacking Switch (dCSS) technology in a new WNC multi-switch, the DSWM13 (DIRECTVs’ Single-Wire Module 13), marking the world’s first implementation of a dCSS-based single wire solution.

By using Entropic’s dCSS technology, DIRECTV can deliver service to more rooms off a single-coaxial cable run in a multi-dwelling unit (MDU) or commercial installation, including hospitality properties. This implementation significantly reduces the cost and complexity of installation and simplifies set-top box (STB) upgrades as the single-coax cabling run can be shared across multiple rooms.

The new switch is powered by Entropic’s first-generation dCSS solution, the EN5400, which is the digital version of its market-leading Channel Stacking Switch product line for digital broadcast satellite television applications.

“This revolutionary technology from Entropic and WNC provides an affordable way to dramatically increase the entertainment options available in apartment and condo buildings or hotels,” said Henry Derovanessian, senior vice president, DIRECTV, Consumer Premise Engineering. “By deploying the world’s first digital channel stacking switch we can deliver more entertainment to multiple tuners off a single coaxial cable from the outdoor unit switch to more set-top boxes and gateways in a multi-dwelling unit or commercial facility.”

The DSWM13 solution is optimal for the hospitality market as it enables greater tuner support (13 tuners versus an analog system which supports up to 8 tuners) across the single-cable infrastructure. Further, the system can support a large number of DIRECTV receivers (STBs) from a common IDF (Intermediate Distribution Frame).

“WNC and Entropic have a long history working together to meet DIRECTV solution needs,” said Jeffrey Gau, president and COO, WNC. “This new deployment is a significant forward migration of the Channel Stacking Switch products into the hospitality market and marks a win-win opportunity for DIRECTV and consumers alike.”

“DIRECTV is the market leader when it comes to single-wire cabling solutions,” said Al Servati, vice president, Marketing, Entropic. “They continue to future-proof their network by deploying the first digital CSS solution, which will enable DIRECTV to expand its product line and service new applications in key markets like hospitality.”

About the EN5400

Entropic’s EN5400 enables the ability to run one coaxial cable between the outdoor unit (ODU) and the in-room STBs, using off-the-shelf DIRECTV signal splitters. It can finely multiplex its output, on command from STBs to multiplex the large input bandwidth down to the exact frequencies that each STB needs to tune/demodulate at that time.

The EN5400 supports up to 14 Intermediate Frequency (IF) inputs, which are converted by Analog to Digital Converters (ADC) with each supporting 500MHz bandwidth located at 250MHz to 750MHz. It provides up to 20 user channel outputs.

Availability

The new dCSS technology is currently in early stage trials with multiple hotel chains throughout California, USA.