Light Reading is reporting that CableLabs is developing an OpenCable initiative which utilizes DOCSIS 3.0 to empower IP applications to cable set top boxes. The main advantage that DOCSIS 3.0 brings is the ability to bond RF channels, which results in a robust bandwidth pipe that can support a variety of IP applications, including IP multicast and unicast.
The move to IPTV by cable MSOs is inevitable. Bandwidth intensive applications including HD and VOD will dictate it. Current and near term future IPTV operators must realize that the competitive advantage offered by deploying IPTV today is a closing window of opportunity. One that must be seized and leveraged as quickly as possible.
