HITS Launches Next Generation Of Platform To Support Independent Cable Operators
Denver, CO
NCTC Members Sign On for Upgraded Services
Denver, Colo - February 25, 2013- HITS®, a wholly owned subsidiary of Comcast Cable, today announced a significant upgrade, known as “Q2,” to the HITS Quantum™ Platform. The next generation of the platform which supports existing MPEG-2 infrastructure, includes converting several HITS standard definition (SD) transponders to DVB-S2 technology, increasing the number of HD services offered in MPEG 2, and delivering the entire programming lineup via a single satellite.
The HITS Q2 upgrade illustrates the company’s continued commitment to innovating for industry-prevalent MPEG-2 technology. Q2 improves the efficiency of MPEG-2 services offered by HITS, helping operators to utilize their existing technology as well as update their equipment at significantly less cost than other plant upgrade options. This helps operators maintain competitive service levels with minimal capital investment.
HITS and the National Cable Television Cooperative (NCTC) recently renewed their agreement to offer the next generation of the HITS platform to their members. The majority of participating NCTC members have already opted-in to the new deal for enhanced HITS satellite services. Several programming groups have also signed on to the upgraded platform.
“For 17-years, HITS has remained committed to improving how we meet the needs of the independent cable operator. We have continually refined the platform to provide cable operators with more cost-effective solutions for increasing their competitive edge, adopting new technologies and expanding their digital video revenue opportunities,” said Leslie Russell, Vice President and General Manager for HITS. “Q2 leverages next-generation technology that allows our affiliates to add more programming and reduce bandwidth consumption without rebuilding their headends or replacing CPE.”
Rich Fickle, NCTC President and CEO, said: “We are glad to renew our 17-year relationship with HITS that enables NCTC members to provide digital video services economically.”
The upgrade begins in the second quarter of 2013. When it concludes, over 70% of the HITS Quantum multiplexes will be using 256 QAM DVB-S2 technology. This technology enables cable operators to add more SD and HD signals using fewer satellite receivers with their existing customer premise equipment (CPE), and to free up to 25% of their bandwidth for new services. In addition, the upgrade provides a cost-effective solution for cable systems looking to convert any remaining analog channels to digital using their existing MPEG-2 architecture. New MPEG-2 HD services are planned for the second half of 2013.
HITS will be available at the NCTC Winter Education Conference (Booth #418), February 25-26, 2013 in Las Vegas, NV to provide additional details.
About HITS
Denver-based HITS, a wholly owned subsidiary of Comcast Cable, is recognized in particular for helping cable systems serving smaller markets bridge the digital divide. HITS provides its customers with a wide range of content management solutions for linear television, video on demand (VOD), and advanced services. In addition to the economies of scale provided by its cloud-based solutions, HITS helps cable MSOs innovate and expand upon traditional cable services to remain competitive. More information about HITS is available at www.hits.com.
About the National Cable Television Cooperative, Inc. (NCTC)
The National Cable Television Cooperative, Inc. (NCTC) is a Kansas not-for-profit corporation that operates as a programming and hardware purchasing organization for nearly 1,000 member companies who own and operate cable systems throughout the U.S. and its territories. NCTC seeks to maximize current and future opportunities to ensure the profitability, competitive stature and long term sustainability of its member companies. NCTC is located in Lenexa, Kansas.
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Media Contact:
Andy Holdgate
720.270.1325
Holdgatepr@comcast.net
