NDS and SanDisk have joined forces to create a low-cost set-top box that also enables DVR-like functionalities.
NDS combined its MediaHighway set-top box software with SanDisk’s P4 solid-state drives to create the new set-top boxes, which were announced today at the IBC show in Amsterdam.
By provisioning a set-top box with a small amount of storage, operators can introduce new revenue-generating features such as live pause and video-on-demand with the ability to enable home networking functionality and advanced advertising solutions, including ad substitution.
At present, the boxes have what NDS is describing as a “modest” amount of storage. The SanDisk memory is available in increments of 4 GB, 8 GB and 16 GB.
The two vendors said the new solution also allows for the deployment of energy-efficient set-top boxes with decreased power consumption, small form factors and virtually silent operation.
“This exciting development underscores how seamlessly the SanDisk SSDs work with NDS MediaHighway technology,” said Jonathan Beavon, director of segment marketing at NDS. “This innovative solution offers operators a low-power and reliable alternative to conventional hard disk drives, enabling a new market segment.”