TV/COM International, Inc., a leading provider of global digital communications solutions for the direct-to-home, cable, and terrestrial markets, announced that it is providing the design for the receivers in the Grundig-manufactured set-top boxes (STBs) that receive BSkyB's new-generation digital services.

The set-top boxes, designed by TV/COM and manufactured and branded by Grundig, feature Open TV interactive software and a cash card slot for electronic commerce. The TV/COM set-tops incorporate the NDS VideoGuard Conditional Access Control System (CAS). The CAS authorizes commercial and consumer subscriber access and controls overall system security.

This announcement pulls together three key industry players: BSkyB as the UK's leading satellite broadcaster, Grundig as a major manufacturer of satellite receivers, and TV/COM (a subsidiary of Hyundai Electronics) as a world leader in the design of digital consumer set-tops and installation of open-architecture digital networks. TV/COM will design and develop the advanced digital receivers that will give BSkyB its market edge. These STBs will give BSkyB viewers the highest quality TV images, from the most advanced digital set-top boxes on the market.

Demand for BSkyB's new service is expected to be high, and all three companies have made sizable investments to ensure the successful UK introduction of digital satellite broadcasting. Grundig UK has been involved in satellite television since its commercial European launch in 1988, and has established itself as a leading brand name in the UK. Last year, Grundig and TV/COM formed a strategic alliance in Digital STB design, manufacture, marketing and sales with the express intention of making advanced digital technology available to both broadcasters, such as BSkyB, and the many UK retailers selling Grundig receivers.

(Source: Ninfomania NewsWire)