ST and SoftAtHome demo secure, high-quality platform for multi-screen digital services

SWITZERLAND & FRANCE: STMicroelectronics and SoftAtHome, a provider of home operating platforms enabling operators to deliver convergent services for the digital home, have successfully demonstrated a client/server solution that will allow service providers to reach extra screens with optimal user experience in subscribers' homes via a single, managed connection.

Taking advantage of ST's set-top box IC portfolio, which covers a broad range of performance and features for applications from gateway/server devices to low-cost zapper boxes, the solution allows an entry-level client such as a mini-box or HDMI dongle connected to a secondary television or PC to receive operator services via the main home gateway.

Built upon ST's competitively priced STiH205, the client device supports higher video quality than other types of devices such as mobiles, and provides a secure platform for conditional-access services.

The STiH416 system-on-chip powering the server/gateway is the world's highest performing set-top box IC, which supports high-speed decoding and transcoding to deliver outstanding user experiences to any home client. The SoftAtHome software platform enables operator services to present a consistent look and feel across multiple screens. Moreover, the use of industry-standard protocols such as DLNA, CVP and RUI frees operators from the constraints of proprietary solutions.

SoftAtHome's unique software platform for CPEs enables the best of PayTV and OTT (Over-The-Top) services to be merged into a unified Service Provider experience on any connected screen. SoftAtHome has ported its software across ST's full portfolio of connected-home system-on-chip ICs, allowing operators worldwide to leverage the SoftAtHome Operating Platform (SOP5) to deliver innovative services to their customers.

Today's subscribers are increasingly consuming services via multiple devices such as smartphones, tablets, PCs, game consoles and secondary televisions throughout the home. Operators need to be able to reach all of these screens, via their own managed networks, to deliver the full service portfolio and ensure quality of service and optimal quality of experience.