A publicly traded start-up has announced an IP-STB (Internet protocol set-top box) with a USB-based “cable card” that allows users to access subscription content from Internet-connected PCs. Advanced Technetix's “AccessKey Home” IP-STB runs Linux or Windows, and targets IP-TV service providers.

(Click for slightly larger view of AccessKey Home)

Wireless keyboard and mouse

Advanced Technetix says its AccessKey Home IP-STB enables users to access high-definition television content on demand, navigate the Internet, play video or Internet-based games, listen to music, make VoIP (voice-over-IP) calls, video-conference, run computing applications, and securely store data. The device comes with a wireless keyboard and mouse (pictured at right).

The AccessKey Home IP-STB is optionally available with an “AccessKey USB” storage device, that appears to resemble a USB-based cable card. It may also include a bootable Linux-based OS. The company did not respond to multiple requests for information by publication time. In any case, when plugged into an Internet-connected PC, the AccessKey USB dongle lets users access subscription content from their PC, according to the company.

The AccessKey Home IP-STB is based on a 1.5GHz processor that is presumably x86-compatible, since the device can be configured with either Linux or Windows XP. It has 500MB of “high speed DDRAM,” and an 80GB hard drive. I/O includes s-video, composite video, and stereo audio out, along with an “RJ-45 network connection” and two USB 2.0 ports.

AccessKey Remote (Click to enlarge)

Additionally, the AccessKey Home comes with a universal remote that can be user-programmed to replace up to four infrared remotes, Technetix says. The remote appears to be powered by an ARM-based Atmel SoC, and to run programmable emulation software licensed from Universal Electronics.

CEO George Stevens stated, “Marketing and sales operations have begun, targeting individuals within regional, national, and international cable, satellite, telecom, and broadband service providers the world over.”

Availability

Technetix demoed its AccessKey technology at the Hong Kong Electronics Faire last weekend. No pricing or availability information was provided.

 
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