Euro1080, the first operator to broadcast in High Definition TV throughout Europe, is to use Irdeto Access content protection solutions for its two channels. The services, which launched in January this year, are free to air for now, but will be encrypted from May 1st 2004 using Irdeto’s conditional access technology.
Euro1080 distributes two channels. The Main Channel distributes a daily 12 hours’ programme to European households as well as to a range of venues to familiarise the public with the quality of HDTV has to offer. The Event Channel distributes event programmes (live or recorded) to so-called ‘event cinemas’, equipped with electronic projectors and surround sound systems, as well as to other venues such as theatres, opera houses and sport halls.
The channel bouquet will be protected by Irdeto Access’s content security solution; Irdeto PIsys. Designed to provide the highest levels of protection possible against the theft of content, assets and revenues, it can be scaled to handle millions of subscribers.