The lack of VOD capabilities in first generation CableCard devices is due to not allowing bi-directional communication. While standard digital cable receivers, like those provided by cable companies, have the capability to both receive signals and send instructions back to the head end (the equipment used to distribute television signals to subscribers), first generation CableCard technology doesn't include any way to transmit the information required to take advantage of interactive services. As a result, the instructions necessary for VOD simply aren't available through the CableCard interface.
As the name implies, the new Tru2way communication standard, expected to be available in as many as 90 million households by the end of 2008, adds the ability to use interactive services including VOD and Pay-Per-View. Licensing program, formerly known as the Open Cable Application Platform (OCAP) is handled by CableLabs, a research and development company which is also responsible for DOCSIS cable modem specifications.
D.J. Oh, president of Samsung Electronics America, told This Week In Consumer Electronics "Tru2way technology offers a better path, in the spirit of openness, to interactive cable services for consumers. We look forward to continued work with CableLabs and the cable industry to bring to market the best in cable solutions."
Written by: Rich Fiscus @ 19 May 2008 12:55
