Reliable Wireless Video Distribution Causing a Ruckus

By Erik Linask

Associate Editor,
Internet Telephony magazine

 

In addition to having a quality product or service, marketing and access to the right client base may be the single most important keys to success, especially when it comes to emerging technologies — like wireless networking and IP-based video — which are liable to change on a weekly basis.  So, while product quality is an obvious standard, having the right channels is equally significant.  Without the proper reach, quality becomes worthless.

 

Ruckus Wireless combines both growing fields (wireless and video) with its patent pending technology for reliable transmission of digital video over standards-based in-home wireless networks.  Improving on the consistency and range of standard wireless connections, Ruckus goes one step further, enabling WiFi (News - Alert) users to transmit their IPTV (News - Alert) signal to their TV sets wirelessly.  Furthermore, while service providers may be able to bring triple play services to subscribers’ homes, Ruckus’ technology enables easier distribution of the voice, video, and data services throughout the home using any standards-based 802.11 wireless connection.

 

 

In an effort to extend its market reach, Ruckus Wireless has reached an agreement whereby the Communications Supply Service Association (CSSA) will market, stock, and sell, Ruckus’ MediaFlex smart WiFi system for the home.  CSSA member providers will now have easy access to some of the most compelling wireless technology available today.

 

“Extending next-generation, IP-based digital services in the home is a major issue for broadband providers.  Ideally, a no-wire solution that is reliable enough to support IPTV is what providers and subscribers want,” said Scott Davison, vice president of strategic product development for CSSA.  “Ruckus Wireless has overcome the technical obstacles that, up to now, effectively prohibited WiFi from serving this purpose in the home.”

 

CCSA members include more than 200 independent U.S. telcos across 44 states.  Formed in 1976, CSSA aids in growing the revenue streams of its members by providing access to a portfolio of high quality products, services and resources.  While Ruckus’ MediaFlex will be an amendment to CSSA’s in-home wireless portfolio, the organization also provides wireless hospitality, enterprise, and CPE solutions.

“Our members have needed technology like this for a long, long time,” added Davison.  “Solving the in-home distribution problem has been a big hurdle for providers, and we really didn’t think traditional WiFi would ever be made reliable enough.”

 

Over the last three months, more than 20 U.S.-based rural telcos have opted for Ruckus’ MediaFlex product to support their broadband delivery to homes.  Also, NETGEAR has incorporated Ruckus’ BeamFlex technology — which automatically guides wireless signals around interference, choosing the best available path — into its RangeMax line of wireless routers.

 

“The smaller U.S. telcos are clearly taking the lead in delivering higher bandwidth and new digital services to consumers,” said Bob Payne, vice president of business development for Ruckus Wireless.  “Over the last quarter, we’ve literally been inundated by independent telcos actively rolling out IPTV and we need a better, more cost-effective solution for extending these services into the home.  Our relationship with CSSA helps us scale product distribution while enabling us to offer a higher level of service and support from an organization recognized for their service excellence.”