CableLabs: Current Cable Set-tops Can Handle 3D Signals

19 Jan, 2010 By: Chris Tribbey

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When consumers start buying those fancy new 3D HDTVs that debuted at the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), they likely won’t have to get a new set-top box from their cable company to enjoy a 3D signal, according to research from Colorado-based CableLabs.

Most of the digital set-top boxes currently used by American cable operators are capable of processing 3D TV signals in frame-compatible formats, the nonprofit cable research group found. Frame-compatible means a 3D image is sent with separate left and right video signals within the same video frame currently used for standard 2D fare. The report also found that operators would be able to deliver both 2D and 3D signals of the same program, with little added stress on bandwidth.

“We’ve found today’s cable system is a flexible system that enables delivery of 3D TV signals with little to no change in cable’s existing VOD and switched digital video infrastructure to existing set-top boxes,” said CableLabs president and CEO Dr. Paul Liao. “This system will deliver a high-definition 3D image to today’s new generation of 3D TVs regardless of their native display technology.”

One issue remains, according to CableLabs’ report: While the delivery of stereoscopic (glasses) 3D TV signals won’t be a problem, getting that signal delivered in 1080p60 is proving difficult. The report states that a “long-term” solution for high-def 3D TV signal delivery is being sought.

“As with 3D cinema the viewing of 3D TV in the home will require special glasses. Cable delivered 3D video works equally well with displays using active shutter glasses and with displays using passive polarized glasses,” said David Broberg, VP of consumer video technology at CableLabs.
 

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