Thomson introduced a new, Intel-architecture-based video delivery platform for DSL, cable or satellite network operators. Thomson's "Cobra" platform will support current and next-generation video codecs, including MPEG-2, MPEG-4 Part 2, Windows Media 9 Series, and MPEG-4 Part 10 (JVT). The company said it has worked closely with Intel, Microsoft TV and Alcatel to create an efficient platform for delivery of a wide range of services, including Internet, audio and video content and gaming. Thomson's Cobra platform will support a range of set-top box designs, such as:
- a basic set-top box receiver that delivers streaming audio and video content and supports interactive applications.
- a set-top box receiver with a hard-drive to receive video on demand programming over DSL networks.
- a set-top box receiver with a hard-drive and tuners to support advanced personal video recorder (PVR) capability for easy to use program recording and playback.
- a set-top box receiver with a hard-drive, PVR capability, and an optical drive such as CD or DVD for program recording and playback.
