CableLabs, along with TiVo, Motorola, Scientific-Atlanta, BigBand Networks and C-COR, announced a new solution that extends the functionality of many one-way CableCARD products to access switched digital services.
Access was previously unavailable to such devices, which are called Unidirectional Digital Cable Ready Products (UDCPs). No set-top box is required for their use.
CableLabs recently developed specifications for a new external interface that enables UDCPs equipped with a USB connector and necessary firmware to access switched digital cable channels. A new adapter using this interface will attach to the UDCP device so the device can access switched digital cable channels. It will be available in the first half of next year.
Devices that could receive the benefit of this new technology include TiVo Series 3 HD digital video recorders and other one-way CableCARD-enabled products equipped with a USB connector and necessary firmware that consumers are currently using in their homes.
