Press release
AlphaCrypt-TC field trial enters second round
With immediate effect, a new firmware version is available for downloading by field testers of the Common Interface module featuring two integrated Smartcard readers.
Unterbergen, 20. January 2005 – Mascom, the manufacturer of AlphaCrypt, is renowned for its excellent customer support. A major field trial, involving more than 120 test persons operating under real live conditions, has been under way for several weeks, featuring the Common Interface module AlphaCrypt TC (Twincard), which is due to be launched on the market in spring. The update of the new firmware, version 3.0, which is being broadcast via satellite with immediate effect, marks the second phase of this field trial. Users can download this simply and free of charge to their AlphaCrypt-TC module. This is how it works:
Many receivers automatically recognise the update transmitted via Astra if you select a programme of the Austrian Broadcasting Corporation (Oesterreichischer Rundfunk ORF). Then the viewer is taken through a menu-driven update procedure that lasts only a few minutes.
In manual operation, this is how the update works: in the menu of the AlphaCrypt CI, under the heading Settings > Applications > Automatic scan on the transponder > you can now select a new update. Here you need only select the software version offered, and the update procedure will commence. As the procedure will also exchange the loader section within the firmware, the downloading procedure may take some time.
For the first time, the AlphaCrypt TC module now contains two card readers, and is thus equipped to manage two subscriber cards of two different Pay-TV providers simultaneously. The new firmware includes corrections of some minor errors, and makes the module even more stable in daily use. In future, the various CI modules of the AlphaCrypt family can be updated using the same update signal via satellite.
This text as well as illustrative material can be downloaded electronically from the Internet at (Headings: Mascom, Press). There is no charge for the use of this material, but we would be grateful if you would let us have two copies of any materials produced with the information.
About Mascom GmbH:
Mascom is a wholesale distributor, founded by Heinz Gruber in Augsburg/Germany in 1986. Since then, Mascom has developed continuously and has become a key player in the field of digital TV, based on its quality-driven philosophy. Mascom distributes the products of world-renowned manufacturers of satellite technology, including Nokia, SCM Microsystems, Topfield or Aston, in some cases as the exclusive distributor for Germany. The development of the AlphaCrypt CI module has gained for the company a reputation as a high-tech developer. Mascom has also been particularly active since 1992 in the CzechRepublic. Here, a joint subsidiary company has been established in co-operation with local partners, which distributes satellite technology products as well as producing its own brand of television sets under the "Mascom" trademark. Other important sales areas include the Middle East, North Africa, Italy and the Scandinavian markets. The headquarters of the company have been located at Kirchstrasse 11 in Unterbergen (between Augsburg and Munich in Bavaria/Germany) since April 2002.
Contact:
Mascom GmbH
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86511 Unterbergen
Tel:+49 8233 7430-0
Fax:+49 8233 7430-200
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Stefan Hofmeir
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