Qtv CPE Solutions
The Qtv consumer premise equipment (CPE) solution provides the in-home management, content cache and delivery to the TV platform for decoding and display on the TV. The Qtv CPE can be implemented in many configurations. The current architecture requires utilizes the home computer for content management and the TV platform for the experience within the living room.
Qtv PC Application
A Qtv PC Application is loaded onto one or more computers within their home. The Qtv PC Application performs the content management functions and interface functions between the TV platform and the Qtv Backend server, such as login management, data buffering, device connectivity, and transcoding (as required).
The Qtv PC Application also operates with third party content delivery managers, including peer-to-peer, progressive and download content managers. This allows content providers to use their existing PC delivery solutions to also deliver content to the TV.
Currently, the Qtv PC Application only supports Microsoft Windows XP, XP Media Center Edition or Vista operating systems.
TV Platforms
Qtv's flexible CPE architecture allows Qtv to support several different TV platforms. The TV platform displays the interface and decodes the content data stream for display on the TV. Qtv currently supports the following TV platforms:
- PlayStation 2 game console
- X-Box 360 Extender
- Active TV enabled Set-Top box
- Active TV enabled Networked TV's
The products and services that can be accessed through a particular platform vary with the capabilities of that platform. For example, the X-Box 360 Extender solution does not support Flash content and some set-top boxes support HD content. Qtv detects the specific TV platform and only displays the content that can be played on that platform.
PlayStation 2
The PlayStation 2 is the cornerstone of BroadQ's platform strategy. Over 20 million North American broadband homes have a PS2 already connected to their TV. Another 20 million PS2 households don't have broadband yet, but can use Qtv as a stand-alone player to access their own digital content, providing a simple entry point for consumers to enjoy their photos, music and videos.
The PlayStation 2 requires the use of a Qtv PS2 disc to boot a Linux Qtv Client Application on the PS2. The Qtv PS2 disc will be distributed to consumers on a 30-day free trial basis through a combination of direct, retail and provider channels.
Stand-Alone Operation
In stand-alone operation, the PS2 is not connected to a home network. The Qtv disc is simply loaded into the PS2 and a USB storage device is connected one of the two USB ports on the PS2. Users can directly browse the photos, music or videos stored on the USB device. Standalone also provides a simple way for consumers to try Qtv.
Network Connected
The full potential of Qtv is realized when the PS2 is connected to a home network with broadband. The PS2 can be connected through the Ethernet port using a wireless Ethernet bridge, Homeplug adapter, Cat 5 cable or other network solution. The PS2 can also be connected using certain supported USB wireless adapters, greatly reducing the cost of network connecting the PS2 to a wireless home network.
The Qtv PC Application is loaded onto one or more home computers using the PS2 disc provided to the consumer. The user will be prompted to establish user accounts for each household member, including: individual user names, passwords, access to personal and online content services, billing information, etc. The consumer then loads the Qtv PS2 disc into the PS2. The PS2 will synch with the PC Application and display the user interface using the individual's personal settings.
If a broadband connection is not available, users can still enjoy their photos, music and videos stored on a network connected PC or storage device. Web TV content services will automatically be available once a broadband connection is established.
Set-Top Box
The Qtv managed service solution can also be accessed through certain AMD Active TV enabled set-top boxes. The Qtv PC Application is simply loaded onto one or more network connected PC's. The set-top box is then connected to the home network as recommended by the set-top box manufacturer. The set-top box will automatically synch with the PC Application when it is activated.
Currently, several hybrid set-top boxes with a Digital Terrestrial Broadcast (DTB) receiver and Ethernet networking support are planned for release in Europe. Qtv running on the set-top box will enable consumers to access a broader range of entertainment services than just broadcast television.
BroadQ intends to work with local partners in each region to localize Qtv and customize the content services to that region.
Networked TV
The Qtv managed service solution will also be able to be accessed through new Active TV enabled networked TV's when they become available. The Qtv PC Application is simply loaded onto one or more network connected PC's. The TV will automatically synch with the PC Application and the user will have access to their personal media and online digital entertainment.
Currently, no Active TV enabled networked TV's are on the market. We anticipate that network support will be standard on most TV's within the next few years. Qtv provides value not only consumers, but also to TV manufacturers by bringing high value content services to their TV products.
Media Center
Qtv can be accessed through the Microsoft Media Center PC and Extender solutions. A Qtv program is loaded onto the Media Center PC to give consumer access to Qtv through the Programs menu on Media Center interface.
We anticipate that Qtv will also be available as a Spotlight portal. Qtv provides an integrated solution that simplifies the process of browsing and experiencing digital entertainment on the TV.