RedRat to launch new set-top test product

Automated set-top testing specialist RedRat is using IBC to launch a new version of its set top box testing and control product, irNetBox.

The new irNetBox, branded as irNetBox-IV, includes a number of new features, such as a built-in OLED display and navigation panel to simplify its installation and management on customer networks, according to the company.

The display can also be configured to show client-specific testing data, such as the type, frequency or duration of tests being carried out, according to RedRat.

Other features include an on-board real-time clock to support autonomous testing functionality directly from the device itsel), Power over Ethernet (PoE) support and extended API capabilities. The device also includes an expansion header to accommodate RedRat’s RF4CE and Bluetooth LE modules to facilitate both infrared and RF control in testing facilities with heterogeneous groups of set-top boxes.

The company says that RF technology is being increasingly used to control TV set-top boxes and to facilitate interactive TV applications, citing the statistic that almost 50% of TV and set-top box remote controls currently coming on to the market are RF based.

RedRat will also be showcasing a new product RF evaluation kit developed to support its new RF4CE and Bluetooth product range. The evaluation kit allows set-top vendors and manufacturers to incorporate RF remote control testing scripts into their standard testing processes before moving to mixed IR/RF or totally RF-based testing environments.

“Our next-generation product range allows set top box manufacturers to support mixed testing environments while they make the transition from infrared,” said Chris Dodge, technical director and owner of RedRat Ltd. “Improved usability and management that our new product offers, combined with an enhanced specification and design will assist QA departments as they setup and operate their test environments.”

RedRat will be exhibiting at IBC on stand 11.B30F

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