Comcast Cable and Time Warner Cable have formed a joint venture, RDK Management. RDK Management will manage the Reference Design Kit (RDK) software being used in next-generation set-top boxes.

The new company will be responsible for RDK licensing, community support, and training, as well as code management. Comcast will contribute RDK components into the new entity, including the RDK code and specifications, related intellectual property rights, and associated contracts. All of the current RDK licenses will be transitioned to the RDK Management, as well.

The RDK is a pre-integrated software bundle, initially developed and licensed by Comcast to create a common framework for powering tru2way, IP or hybrid set-top boxes and gateway devices. The RDK works with the CableLabs OCAP Reference Implementation software along with other open source components.

[Image courtesy: RDK]