Oracle affiliate Network Computer, Inc.
(NCI) introduced today a customizable server package designed to allow
Internet access providers to deliver services that integrate Internet and
television capabilities.
Unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, NCI says its
Custom Connect Server allows Internet, cable, or satellite
service providers to develop and manage Internet-based Enhanced TV offerings.
Custom Connect’s integrated servers, tools, and applications are designed to
enable access providers to deliver e-mail, interactive TV guides, chat,
news ticker, and Web browsing services integrated with broadcast
television, cable, or satellite programming.
“Today’s Custom Connect announcement completes NCI’s open solution,” said
Wei Yen, president of Network Computer, Inc. “NCI’s family of consumer
technology now includes a robust server product that compliments our leading
DTV Navigator and TV Navigator client software platforms. With Custom
Connect Server Suite, any access provider can tap into the growing Internet
community by building their own Enhanced TV service.”
NCI reports that Custom Connect Server Suite is scheduled for availability
in February 1998 on Sun Solaris 2.5.1 and 2.6 and Windows NT 4.0.
In other news from the Consumer Electronics Show, NCI also reports today
that it will work with Intel to Intercast-enable its software
line, and collaborate with Intel and others to develop an open digital
broadcast specification for Enhanced TV programming.
The company also claimed that the RCA Network Computer, which is
manufactured by Thomson Consumer Electronics, has exceeded sales forecasts
and expectations.
“This year has been phenomenal for our first consumer product,” said Jerry
Baker, CEO of NCI. “Every unit that Thomson manufactured has already been
sold. The powerful combination of NCI’s software technology and Thomson’s
strong brands and distribution reach will continue to drive upward sales in
1998.”
