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 The
Explorer set-top and Digital Interactive System form a true client/server
environment, where applications operate both in the set-top and on the server
side of the network. We have designed a development process that allows
developers to use client and server tool kits to aid them in their efforts.
Information Exchange and Enrollment
The first step is to understand the operational and technical strategy for
service delivery to the end-user. In order to better understand the Explorer
set-top architecture, you can download our Digital Broadband Delivery System
Overview and System APIs documentation from our Web
site.
Two development programs are available to meet
the varied needs of today's application developers:
- The itaas istart developer
program - Set-top client-only development program provided by
Scientific Atlanta's development consultant and partner, itaas,
inc.
- CreativEdge developer program
- Full digital network development program provided by
Scientific Atlanta, Inc.
Client Development
Client applications are created using the PowerTV Operating
System. This operating system provides a set of application
programming interfaces, or APIs,
which are used to create rich graphical user interfaces, perform
client messaging, and use peripheral devices such as keyboards and
remotes. Client development kits include an interface to an
external hard drive, so that client applications can access data
as if connected to a network. This allows the developer to
complete a large part of the development process without a large
up front investment in networks. In addition, client development
kits include the Scientific Atlanta Resident Application for added
navigation and application functionality. Ultimately, a company's
marketing group can perform user interface studies and proof of
concept tests to make sure that customers see value in the product
before substantial resources are committed.
Server Development, Testing
and Integration
The server application can be created, which will interface with
web servers, customer databases, and other external subsystems.
Our System APIs
support client-server messaging, application registration and
launch, resource requests, and data path setup functions. During
development, our dedicated applications development engineering
team will support your efforts through email and telephone based
support. On-site training is provided upon installation of the
Headend. Developer bulletin boards on our members only web site
will provide you with additional resources. Integration can also
be completed in our Headend Development Labs in Atlanta.
CreativEdge
Certification
Scientific Atlanta certifies CreativEdge applications by running a
complete set of Application Certification and Test Procedures.
These determine whether your application can properly launch on a
customer's Scientific Atlanta network. Issues such as memory
leakage, resource management, traffic impact, and latency will be
identified to help ensure that your application runs properly
under loaded conditions. Certification guidelines will help you
understand reliability requirements, bandwidth usage, and memory
constraints, so that end-users don't experience problems after
launch. Operational issues such as installation and maintenance,
training of Customer Service Representatives, and end-user
documentation are also covered in the certification process. This
rigorous process allows both network operators and application
developers to be confident in the new services they deliver to
subscribers.
Consulting Services:
CreativEdge Qualified Consultants
We know that many companies do not have the resources or desire to
invest in the infrastructure for in-house development of
applications and content. Similarly, there are many developers who
have a great amount of expertise in the area of interactive
content development. Through our Qualified Consultant program, we
can help link together content providers with the best interactive
content specialists in the industry. If you are interested in
working with one of our qualified consultants or if you want to
become a CreativEdge Consultant, please
contact us.
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