DaweVision to launch Babel TV in November

DaweVision, which is headed by Pipex founder Peter Dawe, is launching Babel TV.

The device, which combines a Freeview set-top box, Personal Video Recorder (PVR) and Internet access via a wired Ethernet connection, was developed by Peter Dawe and colleague Mark Turner.

An optional wirless module will be made available, which uses powerline networking to ensure video quality isn’t compromised.

The Babel set-top box will cost £295 when it is launched on November 6. Users will simply be able to plug the box into a Freeview aerial and a broadband connection in order to watch, record and pause Freeview TV.

The device includes a wireless keyboard and pointer device, allowing users to connect via USB to other devices, such as digital cameras or MP3s, to transfer or view media, and to use the Internet.

The Xubuntu Linux-based system comes pre-loaded with software, including Open Office, Firefox and a VoIP application. It features a 160GB hard disk for recording TV shows and storing media.

The BableTV IPTV service will compete against BT Vision, Tiscali TV and Freewire.