Amino, leading IPTV set-top box (STB) supplier, is set to bring affordable High Definition (HD) TV services with today's launch of the world's first single-chip HD AVC/H.264 IPTV STB specifically designed for the global hospitality industry. Hospitality service providers have always had the desire to adopt HD, but this used to require expensive "PC-based" STBs. The AmiNET130H will substantially lower the costs and accelerate the mass rollout of HD across the industry. The innovative AmiNET130H is modelled on the highly successful AmiNET110H design, widely deployed in hotels worldwide. The AmiNET130H will allow hotels to maximise individual guest value through the provision of premium HD content and increase overall system ROI. The AmiNET130H will begin shipping in volume in Q3 2006.

"When people stay in hotels, especially the prestige locations that we believe will be early adopters of HD AVC IPTV, they expect the entire guest experience, including the quality of entertainment, to be a class above what they can enjoy at home. Guests are demanding services such as early releases of premium HD Hollywood movies and HD internet browsing on the TV." commented Roy Kirsopp, VP and General Manager of Amino Communications. "The AmiNET130H is based on Amino's proven IPTV technology and will allow hotels not only meeting, but exceeding guests' expectations while generating new revenue streams and high value services."

This latest addition to the Amino range of HD H.264/AVC set-top boxes is housed in a rugged case, which is easily installed and hidden to remove the risk of damage or misuse, thereby reducing maintenance costs. The unit features a second Ethernet port for additional services, such as high-speed internet access and Voice over IP (VoIP). It also features a TV interface, which enables a completely invisible installation where the whole system can be controlled via the television using one remote control.

Premium HD content will be protected by a wide range of industry standard conditional access systems and high-bandwidth digital copy protection (HDCP) technology, which will provide content owners such as the Hollywood studios, with peace of mind that their revenues are secure.

H.264/AVC will make the best use of the available network bandwidth, which will increase the services that can be provided to the guest. This codec technology will become increasingly necessary with the arrival of HD services and content.

Amino hospitality customers will be demonstrating the HD video streaming capabilities of the AmiNET130H at the HITEC 2006 event, June 20-22, in Minneapolis, USA.