The Multi-Family Housing version 3 (MFH3) satellite-based distribution platform, which was developed by DirecTV and Thomson, is being rolled out with a new software release that doubles the number of DirecTV receivers that MFH3 will support.
The MFH3 with the new software release provides a more cost-effective installation for large properties and enables “injection” of local content, such as on-site amenity video feeds into the system.
MFH3 enables the delivery of all DirecTV programming and services using existing in-building wiring by converting DirecTV signals into IP video packets to IP-enabled DirecTV receivers. The system uses the technology as a distribution platform to deliver over a single home-run wire satellite TV and other services from a private “on-property” headend to each customer dwelling.
In addition to supporting both DirecTV standard-definition (SD) and high-definition (HD) digital video recorder (DVR) receivers, the IP distribution platform will also support voice, Internet and interactive services over a single connection, enabling the delivery of triple-play bundles, DirecTV said.
The new software release also allows MFH3 to more than double the receiver capacity and provides support for local content insertion, enabling residents to access and view their building’s custom amenity feeds and other on-site video services.
“Customers in multi-family housing, whether they live in large vertical or garden-style building, not only have a superior alternative to cable, they now have access to virtually all of our services and technology, from HD to international programming,” said Tony Goncalves, VP of telco and MDU sales for DirecTV. “The MFH3 platform provides a unique and simple solution for our customers who want the benefit of the full DirecTV experience and provides a great business opportunity for our dealers, who can now offer a competitive, cost-effective and cutting-edge solution to multi-family property owners. MFH3 is also ideal for new fiber infrastructure systems integrators and telcos that are building out new fiber plants.”
DirecTV has established new strategic partnerships with several companies, including AFL Telecommunications, Your Residential Technology Team (YRT2) and Crystal Clear Technologies, to speed up the deployment of the technology.
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