Pixelmetrix Signs Virgin Media Deal

The expert name in preventive monitoring for digital television and IPTV networks, Pixelmetrix, has signed an agreement with Virgin Media to roll out the Pixelmetrix Electronic Couch Potato (ECP) across its digital TV network.
The ECP is a programmable test robot that monitors true customer-viewing experience by providing measurements from the end point of the content delivery chain.
The Automated Channel Package Auditing feature of the ECP proved effective for quality assurance and monitoring of multi-region networks with central headends and vast channel options.
Danny Wilson, President of Pixelmetrix said: "Virgin Media was looking for an innovative solution to assure end-to-end visibility of their network operations.
"In particular, the automated package auditing application provided by the ECP improves Content Provider confidence while reducing OPEX.
"Hence, the ECP makes an excellent choice to optimize their quality of service monitoring. We are indeed privileged to work with one of the leading television and service providers in the UK," he said.
The ECP connects after the Set Top Box and provides feedback on various service quality parameters to a central site.
It stands out with its ability to emulate an end-user changing channels on an STB via a built-in infrared (IR) transmitter. Service plan verification, channel switching and multiple measurements on service quality for each channel reported to a central management console, give service providers valuable insight into the viewer experience and confirms the availability of subscribed to channels.
Alistair Crook, Head of TV Operations of Virgin Media said: "Having seen a demonstration of the ECP at IBC 2009 it was clear to us how such a device, when tailored for our need to accurately audit our TV packages, could greatly enhance our monitoring strategy.
"We are intending to roll out the ECP system for multiple package auditing in our Central Digital headend and are eager to trial the units for regional deployment."
Digi-Box.co.uk, Pixelmetrix official distributor in the UK, works closely with the Pixelmetrix R&D and Support team to oversee successful deployment and operations of the ECPs on-site.
To date, the ECP has bagged the C&T Award for Innovation in Technology Development, Cable & Satellite International (CSI) Product of the Year Award for Best Monitoring/Network Management Solution as well as the TV Technology STAR Award.
(BMcC/GK)