Global telecom and broadband operators will be given new business opportunities by offering customers IP-based extended services such as Video-on-Demand, e-commerce, on-line gambling, etc. The Kreatel broadband service gateway called Tornado/K5 is currently undergoing practical tests and will be ready for shipping during the fourth quarter.

Recently shown to the public for the first time at the IBC 2000 fair in Amsterdam, the Tornado/K5 is developed by Kreatel Communications AB of Sweden. Strategical components included video decoder from Nasdaq-listed Sigma Designs Inc and processors from National Semiconductors. The box is currently being tested and is to be released to the market during the fourth quarter.
"The Tornado/K5 service gateway will be the first IP broadband box to reach the end users and will forever change our view of the TV-set," says Lars Bengtsson, managing director of Kreatel. It will no longer be just a receiver but a two-way communication centre for digital interactive services".
According to the company, the broadband box will provide customers with intuitive interface to the internet and other IP-based broadband services. It will give telecom and broadband operators new opportunities to develop and market interactive services for more revenue per customer and increased long-term profitability.
Connecting the new broadband box to the home TV-set and Hi-Fi equipment will create an easy-to-use, cost-effective capability to experience the new services available on the broadband network.
From the sofa in the living room it will be possible to surf on the Internet, watch new interactive TV-channels, rent movies and CDs on the network (Video-on-Demand & Music-on-Demand), play games, use electronic shopping with full security as well as the capability to send and receive e-mail.
"By using Internet technology - based on open standards -- the operators will find the technology cost-effective to implement and maintain," the company says.
"It will also make it easier to develop, integrate and adapt different services for whatever systems and customer demands may arise," Lars Bengtsson continues.
The Tornado/K5 is compatible with ADSL, Ethernet and cable TV-standards. Future plans include strategical alliances with leading and innovative technical companies.

Caption:
The Tornado/K5 is currently being tested and is to be released to the market during the fourth quarter.

For further information, please contact:
Påhl Melin, Kreatel Communications AB
Teknikringen 4C, SE-583 30 Linkoping, Sweden
Cellular phone: +46-(0)70 774 45 86
Telephone:+46-(0)13-36 76 10
Fax: +46-(0)13-367699
E-mail: pahl.melin@kreatel.com
Webbsite: www.kreatel.com