* TV Cabo picks set-top path to HD
TV Cabo of Portugal has agreed to deploy a new HD-capable MPEG-4 set-top from Thomson. The advanced compression set-top, dubbed the DCI8200, also features an on-board digital video recorder. TV Cabo, which has more than 1.4 million customers, expects to begin deploying the set-top and HD services in the first half of 2007.
* Ellacoya bolsters deep packet inspection capabilities
Ellacoya Networks has enhanced the deep packet inspection (DPI) capabilities of its IP Service Control System with its new 6.4 Software Release.
The new version adds application detection and classification functionality for encrypted applications, including encrypted peer-to-peer (P2P) such as BitTorrent and Skype (primarily in North America/Europe) and Winny2P and Share (primarily in the AsiaPac markets).
Also included in Release 6.4 is activation of the system’s mirror-port functionality; that function enables the system to factor out a subset of network traffic (such as video or voice) and pass a duplicate image through the mirror port to undergo further analysis for purposes such as service assurance.
* BelAir plans mesh migration to mobile WiMAX
BelAir Networks, whose current product line of mobile wireless broadband mesh network systems is based on the fixed 802.16d version of WiMAX, announced its intention to shift its emphasis to 802.16e, otherwise known as Mobile WiMAX.
BelAir said it will deliver 802.16e radio modules for use in both backhaul and access applications. It will base its products on Intel’s latest 802.16e technology. Carrier trials are slated for mid-2007 and general availability is expected in the second half of 2007.
* Ashley Laurent fully digested by Cisco
Cisco Systems has completed the acquisition of the intellectual property and certain assets of privately-held Ashley Laurent, a provider of software for the embedded service provider gateway market.
Ashley Laurent’s software provides firewall/VPN, content filtering, quality of service, device management, TCP/IP routing and virus protection. Cisco intends to incorporate Ashley Laurent technology in its Linksys DSL gateways, as well as leverage it in its products used by service providers.
