DIRECTV and Thomson Launch New Version of Unique Multi-Family Housing Triple-Play MFH3(TM) Distribution System
6/6/2008
-New Enhancement Doubles Number of Receivers That Can Be Deployed in MDUs
-New Strategic Partner to Speed Deployment of MFH3 Technology
Paris (France), El Segundo (USA) - Recently recognized as the most significant and innovative technology for the multi-family housing market, the MFH3 (Multi-Family Housing version 3) satellite-based distribution platform developed by DIRECTV and Thomson (Euronext 18453; NYSE: TMS), is being rolled out with a new software release that doubles the number of DIRECTV receivers MFH3 will support, providing a more cost-effective installation for large properties and enabling "injection" of local content, such as on-site amenity video feeds into the system.
To speed deployment of the new technology, DIRECTV has established new strategic partnerships with several companies including AFL Telecommunications, the leading end-to-end FTTH (Fiber-to-the-Home) MFH3 system integrator, along with some of its largest customers, YRT2(TM) (Your Residential Technology Team(TM), Inc.), and Crystal Clear Technologies.
MFH3 enables the delivery of all DIRECTV programming and services using existing in-building wiring by converting DIRECTV signals into IP video packets to IP-enabled DIRECTV receivers. The system, not to be confused with IPTV, uses the technology as a simple distribution platform to deliver over a single home-run wire satellite TV and other services from a private "on-property" head-end to each customer dwelling. In addition to supporting both DIRECTV standard and HD DVR receivers, the IP distribution platform will also support voice, internet and interactive services over a single connection, enabling the delivery of triple-play bundles.
The new software release allows MFH3 to more than double the receiver capacity and provides support for local content insertion, enabling residents to access and view their building's custom amenity feeds, and other unique on-site video services.
"Customers in multi-family housing, whether they live in large vertical or garden-style building, not only have a superior alternative to cable, they now have access to virtually all of our services and technology, from HD to international programming," said Tony Goncalves, vice president, Telco and MDU Sales, DIRECTV, Inc. "The MFH3 platform provides a unique and simple solution for our customers who want the benefit of the full DIRECTV experience, and provides a great business opportunity for our dealers, who can now offer a competitive, cost-effective and cutting-edge solution to multi-family property owners. MFH3 is also ideal for new fiber infrastructure systems integrators and telcos that are building out new fiber plants."
"This new version represents a sophisticated evolution of our pioneering MFH3 platform and reflects Thomson's commitment to enabling its operator clients to enhance the breadth and reach of their multimedia and entertainment services offering," said Georges Laplanche, senior vice president, Thomson Premises Systems within the Thomson's Systems division. "Meanwhile MFH3 maintains its status as the industry benchmark for the delivery of triple-play services over a satellite infrastructure in the multi-dwelling and master planned community markets."
DIRECTV's MFH3 product was recognized at the Broadband Properties Summit in Dallas, winning the 'Cornerstone Award' for the most significant and innovated technology that has made a notable impact to the MDU and FTTH community. The Broadband Properties Summit is one of the industries premier annual events aimed at the MDU and FTTH markets.
About Thomson - World leader in digital video technologies
Thomson (Euronext Paris: 18453; NYSE: TMS) provides technology, services, and systems to help its Media & Entertainment clients - content creators, content distributors and users of its technology - realize their business goals and optimize their performance in a rapidly changing technology environment. For more information: thomson.net.
About DIRECTV, Inc.
DIRECTV, Inc. (NASDAQ:DTV - News), the nation's leading satellite television service provider, presents the finest television experience available to more than 17 million customers in the United States and is leading the HD revolution with 95 national HD channels - more quality HD channels than any other television provider. Each day, DIRECTV subscribers enjoy access to over 265 channels of 100% digital picture and sound, exclusive programming, industry-leading customer satisfaction (which has surpassed cable for seven years running) and superior technologies that include advanced DVR and HD-DVR services and the most state-of-the-art interactive sports packages available anywhere. For the most up-to-date information on DIRECTV, please visit directv.com.
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