U.S. Telco SCRTC Selects Entone for Launch of IPTV Service

The IPTV (News - Alert) network utilizes the broadband IP network to provide users the TV service. Due to the limited bandwidth of the IP network, IPTV does not broadcast the content of all channels to its users. To improve the IPTV services it is thus necessary for the service provider to develop business models and marketing strategies to improve customer satisfaction and succeed in market competition.

Recently, U.S. telco South Central Rural Telephone Coop, or "SCRTC," has selected Entone (News - Alert), a provider of IPTV home connectivity solutions to provide its gateways and set-top boxes for the launch of an IPTV service, which will include high-definition content.

SCRTC provides telecoms services to over 30,000 residential and business customers in nine counties across South Central Kentucky.  Entone will be providing its Hydra IP video gateways and Amulet IPTV receivers to support the telco's launch of IP video services.

Initially established in 1999 by the team that deployed the world's first and largest commercial IPTV service, Entone's proven technology enables service operators to reliably deliver integrated IP-based video and advanced broadband services using existing in-home wiring.

Entone's technology integrates broadcast television, whole-home DVR, Web media services, personal media sharing, and place-shifting.  The company also provides voice consolidation, and video and high-speed data services. It has strategic alliances with Minerva Networks, Latens, Calix, Harmonic (News - Alert), and Tut Systems. The company is based in San Mateo, California with an additional office in Kowloon, Hong Kong.

Max Phipps, general manager at SCRTC, said that the company needed a field-proven whole-home IPTV solution that would allow the company to deliver integrated broadband services and advanced video applications without having to rewire its subscriber's home, and the economic advantages of Hydra made Entone a clear choice.  

Phipps added that Entone products will enable SCRTC to offer innovative and compelling IP-based services to its growing customer base.