On Digital Media, which plans to launch its DTH platform TopTV in South Africa during the second quarter, is to use both NDS conditional access and middleware.
The MPEG-4 DVB-S2 based service will be secured through the NDS VideoGuard technology. At the same time set-top boxes will carry the NDS MediaHighway middleware including an NDS developed electronic programme guide (EPG).
“We chose to partner with NDS as it offers the most secure encryption for pay-TV and a middleware roadmap that will allow us to introduce more advanced features including a DVR service in the future. The design and ease-of-use of NDS user interfaces was also a key factor in our decision,” said Vino Govender, CEO of On Digital Media. “Moreover, we are benefiting from NDS’ professional services as they bring unique experience from their involvement on similar engagements around the world.”
TopTV intends to challenge incumbent MultiChoice with a package of 30 channels. It has previously said it wants to create a second pay-TV window to ease access to a greater selection of content. (pictured: ODM Representatives: Vino Govender (left), Laurent Petit (right))
