Scientific-Atlanta will be working with SES AMERICOM for the launch of its new IP video service, IP PRIME. With the completion of the initial phases of the new network, SES AMERICOM will employ 140 Scientific-Atlanta MPEG-4 Part 10 encoders to deliver the multi-channel standard definition service.

"IP PRIME should have widespread appeal among telco operators of all sizes around the world. It should prove extremely attractive to medium and small operators who until now have faced major financial and technical barriers to adding video to their service portfolios," said Bryan McGuirk, president of North American media solutions for SES AMERICOM. "When built-out, IP PRIME will carry over two hundred standard definition and high definition channels. Potential customers for IP PRIME can use this very efficient delivery service and leverage SES's well-established relationships with an extensive number of content providers to help them launch this compelling entertainment service quickly and economically."

John Abel, senior vice president, United States Telecom Association stated, "As the market for new video services develops, it is critical that telecom companies have the advanced technology to deliver the next generation of video. The combination of content and IPTV technology will permit telecom companies to make the leap to the next generation and remain vital and vibrant networks for their customers."

"Another strongpoint for IP PRIME customers is Scientific-Atlanta's longstanding heritage of providing highly-reliable digital encoding and receiving equipment for the leading programmers in the U.S.," said Paul Kosac, vice president, market development, Digital Media Networks, Transmission Network Systems at Scientific-Atlanta. "When you add our participation in current IPTV initiatives, we think customers of IP PRIME will be able to capitalize on using the best available IP and MPEG-4 technology and benefit from a smooth programming acquisition process to shorten the time to market for launching IPTV services."

In addition to MPEG-4 encoders, SES AMERICOM has selected Scientific-Atlanta's ROSA^TM Network Management System for its powerful, flexible network and equipment monitoring and control capabilities.

IP PRIME programming will be delivered encrypted to the telco's video center for decryption there in accordance with the services they are authorized to receive. In addition to the secure delivery of the programming content, SES AMERICOM also plans to offer the option of providing local conditional access, middleware and IP set-top control for their telco customers.

Service providers who select the IP PRIME video content solution can also benefit from Scientific-Atlanta's IP set-top initiatives and the experience being gained with the company's deployment of video operations and hub facilities that are underway in the U.S. Scientific-Atlanta's IPTV set-tops will deliver an open platform that will support popular middleware and operating systems, and protect valuable content with conditional access/digital rights management solutions.