Tatung launched its new high-definition, digital set-top boxes with success at the 2006 Cebit in Hannover. These latest set-top boxes (STBs) deliver full high-definition video, up to 1080i resolution, while simultaneously supporting streams encoded under MPEG-2, VC-1 and H.264 (also known as MPEG-4 Part 10) compression. The Tatung STB2000 STB series are based on Sigma Designs' SMP8634 media processor. In addition to traditional outputs such as component and composite, Tatung's new STBs also provide HDMI interface, which enhances the consumer entertainment experience. Currently many other telco companies have adopted Tatung's STB2000 series set-top boxes for their IPTV services.

The newly launched STB2000 hybrid functions not only as an interactive IPTV but also provides a digital TV tuner capability. The tuner capability will be supported under DVB-T standards in the first quarter of 2006, and later provide ATSC, DVB-C and DVB-S2. The STB2000 home networking feature can support mainstream products, such as Home PNA 3.0 and Home Plug.

"Tatung has already been in the advanced, digital set-top box market for six straight years," said W.Y. Lin, executive vice president of Tatung. "The STB2000 series is the most complete solution in the market, and its advanced features and quality can satisfy requirements for nearly all customer demand within the next five years. Sigma's SMP8634 media processor streamlines a myriad of capabilities and features into a solid, single-chip, system-on-chip solution. Moreover, the price point for the new STB is also attractive to telco and service providers. We are seeing a strong demand for this product in 2006, and service providers have progressively marketed the Interactive TV service. The STB2000 series will be the best platform and solution."

Most major middleware suppliers are developing support for Tatung's new STB2000. At the 2005 IBC show, Microsoft made a public statement that its IPTV middleware was set to support the STB2000 series. Tatung's digital set-top box will support American, European and Asian TV standards. In the meantime, Tatung will utilize its plants across the globe (in Taiwan, China, Thailand, Czech and Mexico) to meet customer demand and provide prompt service.