Charter Communications has selected Cisco to supply key products for its next-generation video service over its HFC network.
In a press conference at CES 2015 in Las Vega the companies outlined the network architecture for the new service, which will use thin clients powered by cloud-driven user interface (UI) to deliver new features and experiences. The service will feature a new, cloud-based user interface that will work on any deployed set-top box in Charter’s footprint.
Cisco will supply the cloud-based security suite, including downloadable security solution (DCAS) for set-top boxes, and seamless digital rights management (DRM) solution to support video services on a range of IP devices. Cisco will supply a substantial share of Charter’s next-generation ‘Worldbox’ volume and will continue to supply CableCARD boxes until Charter migrates all current and acquired systems to the downloadable security solution. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Charter will offer both an HD only and an HD-DVR ‘Worldbox’ featuring dual IP/QAM capabilities, configurable up to 16 tuners, a DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem, 1 Gig of RAM, high-powered USB to enable future applications, and a terabyte of storage on the HD-DVR. Charter expects to launch its new fully featured cloud-based user interface, Spectrum Guide on Worldboxes, as well as on legacy boxes currently deployed within the Charter footprint.
“Cisco shares Charter’s vision of the future of network architecture, where our network’s intelligence is located in the cloud rather than in devices at the edge,” said Tom Rutledge, President and CEO of Charter Communications. “We are excited that Cisco will be a key supplier of the Charter Worldbox, and that their Downloadable Security Solution and Digital Rights Management solutions will be part of Charter’s next-generation, cloud-based video solution.”
“Cisco greatly values our enduring partnership with Charter,” said Cisco chairman and CEO John Chambers. “We are proud to join Charter today to showcase the leading edge IP and cloud-based video solutions they are developing, and the Cisco products at their core. Charter’s new video solution, featuring cloud-driven video experiences offered across many devices will be a huge win for Charter subscribers.”
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