Cox Puts Set-Top Testing on Autopilot With NDS

LAS VEGAS – Cox Communications will use NDS Group’s IEX automated set-top testing system to make sure applications run correctly across variously configured Scientific Atlanta and Motorola boxes.

Cox tested the IEX server over the past year with Scientific Atlanta boxes, and has decided to replace its manual testing equipment with the NDS gear and expand its automated testing to include Motorola set-tops.

“IEX allows us to test applications on an array of set-top boxes faster and more accurately than we ever have before,” Cox lead quality-assurance system engineer Bjorn Andersson said, in a statement. “We anticipate operational benefits that will result in Cox being a more agile competitor, and look forward to rolling out new services and features to our customers more quickly.”

The NDS IEX system is a combination of hardware and software that can automatically test all interactive applications on set-top boxes operating in either a cable or telecommunications environment. For example, the system’s tests include changing a channel to launching an electronic program guide, ordering a pay-per-view movie and playing an interactive game with a remote control.