BRIEFS

Cable World, Dec 2, 2002

MOTOROLA, SEACHANGE TEAM UP ON GSRM PROJECT

Motorola Broadband and SeaChange International are co-developing a Global System Resource Manager (GSRM) that will enable operators to manage the bandwidth and complexity of their interactive digital head-ends. The GSRM is software-based and will centralize the management function and allow equipment vendors and service providers to share bandwidth on a single pipe for VOD, high-speed data, IP telephony, broadcast video and IP streaming applications. It also will enable the management of various encryption methods as well as network interface devices. This approach means applications need only communicate with the GSRM, rather than the horde of devices that are necessary at present.

PACE SHIPS 3M GATEWAYS

Pace Micro Technology last week announced it has shipped 3 million digital cable home gateways (the au courant term for dynamic, multiservice set-tops) with integrated cable modems for cable operators worldwide. The company launched the world's first gateway with an integrated DOCSIS cable modem in June 1999 to what was then known as Cable & Wireless Communications in the UK. A home gateway with an integrated cable modem enables cable operators to offer customers advanced digital television services such as VOD, as well as high-speed Internet access for e-mail, home shopping and online games. Pace expects to launch integrated DOCSIS gateways in the U.S. for Comcast in the near future.

ARRIS ROLLS OUT DOCSIS 2.0 MODEMS

Arris has pulled the tarp off its new line of DOCSIS 2.0 data, IP telephony and home networking products. Its Touchstone Cable Modem 400 (CM 400) series offers additional support for synchronous-code division multiple access (S-CDMA), an advanced physical layer scheme required by DOCSIS 2.0. The CM 400 includes a bridged 10/100 Base-T Ethernet and USB data interface that will support multiple PC home networking. The CM 400 will be available in early 2003. A new telephony modem and data gateway are also set to be rolled out in 2003.

CEON RELEASES IPS ADAPTERS, VOIP PACKAGE

Ceon has announced a series of adapters for its Integration & Provisioning Suite (IPS), including an Internet-protocol management platform, a soft switch for primary-line VoIP service and inter-carrier provisioning gateways for E-911 services. Ceon also unveiled its new Ceon VoIP Market Package, designed to enable cable operators to more quickly implement IP telephony services. The Market Package will be integrated with the IPS for Ceon's largest customer, Charter Communications.