RedRat Ltd, a developer and manufacturer of hardware and software for automating TV, set top box and consumer electronics testing processes, has introduced an evaluation kit for its new range of RF remote control testing products. RF technology is being increasingly used to control TV set top boxes and to facilitate interactive TV applications and, according to industry estimates, almost 50% of TV and set-top box remote controls currently coming on to the market are RF based.
RedRat’s evaluation kit includes the necessary components and software needed to enable set top box and consumer electronics manufacturers to incorporate RF testing scripts into their standard processes for evaluation purposes prior to moving to a mixed or totally RF testing environment.
The kit comprises:
- USB Module Adaptor – with modules for either Bluetooth (Classic and Low Energy) or RF4CE
- Evaluation software and associated scripting tools
- Technical support from the RedRat RF development team
The module adaptors can be plugged into a PC or laptop via USB, and are supported on Windows and Linux operating systems. Mac compatible testing evaluation kits are available on request.
Using RedRat’s RF testing and evaluation kit, set top box manufacturers can start to explore the issues around automated STB control via RF protocols, such as pairing with multiple STBs, the impact of interference in a test facility and how rapidly commands can be sent.
Many newer TV set top boxes (STBs) use both IR and RF technologies, so that STB testing can continue to use traditional IR-based control infrastructure. However, it is anticipated over time that, IR will be phased out as RF protocols become more standard. In addition, RF remote controls often include more advanced features which cannot be tested with standard IR commands.
“Set-top boxes are becoming ever more powerful and advanced; the hub of the connected home,” says Dr Chris Dodge, Owner and technical director at RedRat. “RF remote controls offer improved interactivity and fluency when controlling STBs, but the challenge remains of ensuring consistent and reliable operation of the STB and the digital services it provides. Our newly developed RF modules can provide the missing link, providing test systems with RF control capability.”
RedRat’s Test Manager software, developed specifically for remote control testing purposes, will also support RF control, allowing a low cost entry point into script based automated testing. RedRat is also working with a number of third party suppliers of STB testing software, supporting integration of RF control in their systems.
The kit is intended for QA testers and managers working in the set top box manufacturer and consumer electronics industries.
RedRat also provide s a full consultancy services to support organisations wanting to incorporate RF testing into their existing processes.
To find out more about RedRat’s testing and evaluation kits or to become involved in the company’s product development programme then please call us on +44 1799 520092 or send an email to [email protected].