Today's televisions incorporate different functions, giving the consumer more options than ever before. One of these options is being connected to the web to access interactive content, information based services, and many pay-per-view options. Connecting to the web presents security challenges to service providers and equipment manufacturers, pushing them to integrate robust security solutions. LG CNS, a provider of comprehensive solutions from consulting to system deployment and operation, has selected Entropic, a semiconductor solutions provider for the connected home, and its Verimatrix (News - Alert)-certified high-performance hybrid set-top box (STB) system-on-a-chip (SoC).

The partnership between LG CNS and Entropic includes many collaborations and the latest venture will give LG the capability to deliver a system solution merging traditional broadcast content, video-on-demand, and IP-based entertainment. The new LG CNS device is a hybrid (Cable/IPTV) STB which will use the Entropic EN757x/EN758x, a dual-core ARM(R) Cortex(TM)-A9 processor with 5000 DMIPS and ecosystem support for the Google (News - Alert) Android operating system.

"We selected Entropic because they offered a high performance, low-power solution coupled with deep domain expertise in supporting the Android (News - Alert) ecosystem. Further, as our hybrid solution requires bi-directional, IP-based network support, we needed an advanced security chipset that would protect the premium content of our Pay-TV operator customers," said Deog-Joo Won, vice president of Telecommunication and Media BU, LG CNS.

The security platform will be provided by Verimatrix, a company specializing in securing and enhancing revenue for multi-network, and multi-screen digital TV services around the world. This architecture will be embedded on Entropic’s (News - Alert) SoC hardware to provide a software-based content protection platform. The Verimatrix Video Content Authority System (VCAS) and ViewRight STB security solution protects Pay-TV operator content.

As the broadcasting environment changes into a wide multi-network revenue platform, protecting this asset becomes paramount. The VCAS and ViewRight STB solutions are able to provide security and more opportunities by:

• Extending the operator brand and subscriber relationship beyond the living room screen
• Addressing the competitive impact and opportunities of Internet TV/OTT and mobile video
• Providing personalized choices and viewing models across growing number of devices
• Enabling content delivery and monetization spanning multiple networks and geographies
• Assuring subscriber loyalty, enhanced average revenue per user (ARPU), and new revenue streams via self-management services, innovative online applications, etc.

"Although the rapid growth of two-way, IPTV (News - Alert) networks has expanded the world of consumer entertainment and interactivity, it has also opened up a new world of potential programming theft and content piracy. We worked closely with Entropic to enhance revenue security on their STB SoC and ensure LG CNS can offer a product that alleviates any security concerns," said Petr Peterka, chief technology officer at Verimatrix.