Pace profiles Pay TV innovation at IBC 2009

Leading set-top box developer’s role at the heart of digital TV provides technology backbone for industry growth

SALTAIRE, West Yorkshire, UK — IBC 2009 — At this year’s IBC, Pace plc, the leading independent developer of digital TV technologies for the global payTV industry, will highlight its key areas of innovation that are enabling operator customers worldwide to advance the digital TV experience in the home. The company will demonstrate how its technology is making it possible for payTV operators to deliver protected content and services and create an enhanced, yet easily accessible interactive consumer TV experience that puts the viewer in control.

Commenting on Pace’s presence at IBC 2009, Richard Slee, President Pace UK said, “The traditional TV experience is no longer valid in today’s payTV market. HD delivery and PVR functionality are reshaping the television while operators are also looking at ways to bring the Internet together with TV to offer access to different kinds of content as a way to meet rapidly changing consumer expectations. Our current deployments and extensive range of set-top box and networking products clearly demonstrate that we have the technology expertise to make the converged TV experience of the future a reality today.”

Leadership in set-top box technology – As more operators move away from SD distribution in favour of HD delivery and PVR functionality, Pace is pioneering cutting edge set-top box technology that incorporates best-in-class HD, PVR and hybrid IP technology that’s also unlocking the potential for converged whole-home solutions. All of Pace’s set-top box products now offer hybrid functionality.

Network innovation – Pace’s network innovation allows operators to open up new market segments to boost revenue. Pace’s Networks recently announced Canal Digital, part of Telenor Broadcast, as the first customer of its MultiDweller™ technology. At IBC 2009, Pace Networks will highlight how MultiDweller can support payTV operators wanting to extend their triple-play services into hard to reach places.

Pushing the boundaries in energy efficiency – Since launching its Low Environmental Initiative (LEI) at IBC 2008 Pace is on target to reach the EU’s 2013 directives for energy efficiency in consumer electronics, three years ahead of schedule and in time to meet the upcoming 2010 requirements. The LEI also aims to reduce CO2 emissions associated with manufacture and packaging and phasing out the use of hazardous substances, beyond current legislation.

Future technologies – Pace is continually developing new technologies to support the growth of the payTV market and help increase potential ARPU for operators. At IBC 2009, Pace will highlight the future of digital TV including: content sharing through connected hybrid IP set-top boxes and DLNA compliant devices; iTouch control over EPGs; 3D graphical interface capabilities; and internet music streaming to the TV.

For more information and to view Pace’s range of payTV products, please visit Stand 1.B19 at IBC 2009 in Amsterdam.