Irdeto debuts CA module with embedded smart card

net1

The new Irdeto Chip On Board (ICOB) provides a cost-effective upgrade path from "Free Trial" promotions to full-scale subscriptions, according to the company.

ICOB is a secure, removable conditional access module with a built-in auto-expiring smart card. The new ICOB is one of the first devices on the market to combine the unique features and security functions of a standard common-interface conditional access module (CI-CAM) with an embedded smart card chip.

By integrating an auto-expiring Irdeto Access smart card with the ICOB, content providers gain the opportunity to cost-effectively distribute auto-expiring "teaser" promotional subscriptions with every CI-CAM purchased. Once the promotional subscription has expired, consumers can then easily upgrade to a normal subscription (either billed monthly or pre-paid) through the addition of a new smart card. This all-in-one solution operates in any compliant DVB set-top box (STB), enabling pay TV operators - or even free-to-air operators - to take advantage of the large existing installed base of STBs to offer their premium content.

The ICOB and other Irdeto Access content protection solutions will be on display at the NAB2004 exhibition, April 19-22 in Las Vegas.