Scientific-Atlanta, a leading supplier of digital content distribution systems, has entered into a distribution agreement with Mampaey, to provide its cable modems and transmission network products and systems to Belgium's cable operators.
Some products that Mampaey will distribute include RF amplifier products, Prisma optoelectronics products and WebSTAR cable modems for high-speed Internet access.
Speaking on this Paul Mampaey, managing director of Mampaey said: "This agreement allows us to expand our line of inventory to meet increasing customer demands for high-speed, two-way interactive network equipment. "Scientific Atlanta is counting on Mampaey's experience in the Belgium cable industry to take the support of product delivery to the next level.
Scientific Atlanta is also looking to consolidate its presence in Japan. Through its local distributor Itochu, the company is currently selling to over 40 addressable systems in Japan. The company is also working closely with the Japan Cable Labs (JCL). Now it has signed a deal with Japanese cable operator Tomen Mediacom which works under the brand name Mediatti. The operator will buy Scientific-Atlanta's set-tops, digital headend, and interactive applications.
Mediatti is launching Japan's first interactive TV cable system. Scientific-Atlanta's job is to enable consumers in Japan to access a wide range of interactive applications using their own national language and character set, including video on demand (VOD), email, Web browsing, electronic program guide. Mediatti believes that the deal gives it a six to 12 month advantage in delivering true interactive applications.
Under the multi-year agreement, Scientific-Atlanta will provide its complete end-to-end interactive TV system solution, including its cable headend, Explorer digital set-tops, interactive applications, and the expertise and support provided by the company's professional services organization, SciCare Broadband Services
Scientific-Atlanta's efforts in Japan will result in a platform and applications capable of serving other countries within the Asia-Pacific region. The platform will feature a double byte operating system, which enables input and display of Asian character sets.
