News

Pace Micro launches new technology to increase ARPU from multi-dwelling units (31/10/2005)

* Multi-dwelling units become easily accessible to operators

* Operators can offer PVR and HD services without costly rewiring

* Significantly reduced outlay for both operators and end-users

Pace Micro Technology plc (LSE:PIC), the leading dedicated innovator of technology solutions for the payTV industry, has today launched a new technology, Pace Multi-Dweller, which will transform the digital TV industry by improving access to difficult-to-reach customers. Pace Multi-Dweller will enable operators to offer personal video recorder (PVR) and high definition (HD) services to customers in multi-dwelling units (MDUs), thereby increasing average revenue per user (ARPU) opportunities, without the need for expensive installations.

Pace Multi-Dweller works by routing the TV feed Ð from either a satellite, cable, IP or terrestrial signal Ð through a special box which is installed near the input signal. The Pace technology then uses the existing single coax network within the multi-dwelling unit (MDU) to deliver TV feed, and any additional services, to subscribers. This dispenses with the need for expensive re-wiring, which can raise prices and create significant disturbance for both the operator and end-user.

The Pace Multi-Dweller solution is able to tune to all incoming signals but only puts those required by the viewers onto the MDU network, which frees up large amounts of bandwidth. This extra space can then be used to deliver other services to the users, such as PVR functionality and HD content.

The Pace Multi-Dweller is a scalable solution and can serve up to 2000 clients. Based on DOCSIS protocols, the Pace Multi-Dweller can reduce set-top box costs by leveraging existing components in each home.

Steve Jenkins, Chief Technologist at Pace Micro Technology commented: "As operators begin offering more advanced digital TV services to their customers, so the difficulties in reaching people in MDUs become more and more obvious. PVR is a major part of nearly every operator's business plan, for instance, but offering PVR services to MDU users is difficult and complex, thanks to the additional cabling that is required.

"Likewise, the take up of HD channels is expected to be a big draw for consumers over the next few years, especially across Europe. The bandwidths required to deliver an HD service, however, mean that operators are having to reassess how they reach customers in MDUs, as existing infrastructures are unlikely to be able to cope with the extra demands that will be placed on them.

"Pace Multi-Dweller will enable operators to reach MDU customers without expensive rewiring and installation costs as well as enable them to offer the latest developments in TV enjoyment Ð such as PVR and HD Ð to all their customers."

www.pacemicro.com