BSkyB deploys Entropic Channel Stacking Switch in Unitron multi-switch

BSkyB, Unitron Group, Entropic Enable the Delivery of Sky+ to Multi-Dwelling Units

LAS VEGAS — International Consumer Electronics Show — Entropic (Nasdaq:ENTR), a world leader in semiconductor solutions for the connected home, and Unitron Group announced today that the Unitron Johansson multi-switch, powered by Entropic’s EN5218 channel stacking switch (CSS) technology, gives Sky subscribers in the UK and Ireland multi-dwelling units (MDUs) full access to the Sky+ PVR and multi-room services, where prior Sky+ was not previously possible.

Sky, along with Sky ASHAs, the Authorized Sky Homes Agent installer network, was looking for flexible multi-switch satellite solutions to work across a mixed class of set-top box (STB) installations. By leveraging the Johansson 9742 multi-switch, Sky and its installers can simplify whole-home deployments and allow consumers to experience entertainment their way by delivering Sky+ content to multiple rooms in their home, without affecting the homeowners or MDU’s specifications for aesthetics.

Brendan Hegarty, Sky’s Head of Homes and Independent Retailers commented, “Since the deployment of the new Johansson multi-switch all residents in MDUs can now enjoy the full benefits of Sky’s services, including our multi-room package, which lets subscribers enjoy Sky TV channels throughout the home, so different family members can watch the shows they love at the same time.”

The Johansson multi-switch leverages Entropic’s CSS technology to seamlessly distribute signals for eight receivers when in legacy mode, and can expand up to 24 receivers when in Single Cable Router (SCR) mode. By cascading several 9742 switches, entire MDU systems can be supported. By enabling SCR mode in Unitron’s Johansson 9742 multi-switch, Entropic’s technology enabled Sky to simplify the deployment and lower the overall cost of satellite service installation.

“Our Johansson multi-switch product with Entropic’s industry-proven CSS silicon gives power to the Sky subscriber – allowing them to take charge of how they watch TV with Sky+,” said Willy Lamaire, general manager, Unitron Group. “Additionally, as a simplified deployment, we are lowering the capital expenditures for both Sky and the Sky ASHA network of installers, as we removed the need for expensive truck rolls or installer appointments – through the single cable run architecture.”

“We’re transforming the whole-home entertainment experience with our single-wire satellite solutions – from the installation method at the MDU to the way in which next-generation services are delivered into the home,” said Matt Rhodes, senior vice president, Global Marketing, Entropic. “By working with Unitron we have enabled Sky to target new subscribers by simply leveraging our technology for single cable runs from the satellite dish to deliver Sky+ service where it would otherwise be impossible.”