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Nokia launches the World's first Digital IRD With 'Common Interface'
August 29, 1997
Nokia Multimedia Network Terminals (NMNT) has announced the European launch of the Nokia Mediamaster 9600 S - the world's first digital satellite receiver with Common Interface. Nokia engineers have developed the DVB 9600 S - a common interface receiver for satellite and cable DVB (Digital Video Broadcast) incollaboration with France Telecom and a consortium including MATRA Communications, Temic Semiconductors and SCM Microsystems.
The application of the Common Interface standard will ensure an open digital market for TV distribution which will see the end-user benefit from a universal digital receiver that will enable reception of services from a number of programme providers. The launch follows Nokia's agreement with Telenor Satellite Services in April '97 for the development, manufacturing and marketing of Common Interface-based digital receivers for Scandinavia, as well as an order from Via Digital for 50,000 units in Spain during June '97.
In addition CI, as defined by DVB, extends the PCMCIA (personal computer memory card international association) in such a way that potential applications are almost unlimited, as proven to be in the computer industry. The interface provides for the separate delivery of receiver and various conditional access services. As the CI is a true open standard, it is expected that there will be a large set of CI modules to support various functions, including operator specific electronic programming guides and games among many other applications.
The Nokia Mediamaster 9600 S can operate over several networks and accommodate a wide range of transmission parameters. It is capable of demodulating all DVB compatible signals independently from bandwidth or symbol rates.
The Nokia Mediamaster 9600 S will sort channel numbers and satellites so programmes or broadcasts are selected by name. The system also uses advanced graphics which individual broadcasters and programmers can use to offer highly interactive techniques so viewers can get an individual response to their queries about what's on where.
Despite the continued success of MPEG-2/DVB as a world-wide standard for digital TV broadcasting, no standard has been set for the Conditional Access (encryption) format which ensures that transmissions only reach the viewers that are entitled to the services. The Common Interface standardised CA modules can be inserted into the IRD's and the end-user will be happy with one digital receiver.
Nordic Satellite Broadcasting (NSB) have just begun broadcasting TV-Finland from Intelsat 707, one degree West across Europe, allowing Finns living around Europe to watch their home TV using the Nokia Mediamaster 9600S Common Interface. TV-Extra are also managing SVT - Swedish broadcasting for ex-patriates across Europe.
For further information:
Dr Helmut Stein
Nokia Multimedia Network Terminals Tel: +49 172 20 08 495
helmut.stein@mnt.nokia.com
Frances Wood
International Communications
Nokia Multimedia Network Terminals Tel: +44 385 904 285
fran.wood@nokia-communications.co.uk
http://www.nokia.com
http://www.nokia.de
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