BRIEFS

CABLEWORLD STAFF

Scientific-Atlanta has introduced the Explorer 3250HD, the latest product in its HD set-top line. Boasting 40 megs of memory and a 166 MHz processor, the new box is 30% faster than previous Explorer models. The 3250HD supports standard-definition 480i and 480p scan rates, along with hi-def 720p and 1080i scan rates. It also allows consumers to stretch and zoom video for full-screen viewing on HDTVs. S-A plans to begin shipping the new box to cable operators in Q2 of 2003.

Insight Communications has ordered up a number of Arris Touchstone CM 300 cable modems for use in its HSD service. The DOCSIS 1.1-certified devices will be deployed throughout Insight's systems in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio, a company spokesperson said. Financials were not disclosed. The CM 300 modem supports a bridged USB and Ethernet interface ? which allows two PCs to use the same modem without any additional home networking equipment ? and supports A-TDMA (Advanced Time-Division Multiple Access).

Cox and Comcast are bringing Network Associates' McAfee firewall software to their HSD customers. Cox's 1.4 million cable modem subs can download McAfee's anti-spam, antivirus, firewall and privacy services directly from the Cox home page. Meanwhile, Comcast is offering one free year of McAfee's firewall service (which AOL Broadband now bundles) to its 3.6 million Internet subs.

TiVo has jumped into the home networking fray. Last week the PVR manufacturer introduced its Home Media Option platform, a service that allows TiVo Series2 customers to stream video, digital music and still photos to other networked devices in the home. (TiVo does not allow for the sharing of recorded material with devices outside the home.) The HMO platform is compatible with both Mac and Windows-based PCs and is available as a download for a one-time flat fee of $99.