Report surveys Chinese set-top box makers

Edited by the Electronicstalk editorial team Oct 27, 2005

A new report predicts that in 2005 mainland China and Taiwan production of set-top boxes is expected to top 28 million units - up 64% from 2004.

Global Sources' "China sourcing report: set-top boxes" shows that in 2005 mainland China and Taiwan production of set-top boxes is expected to top 28 million units - up 64% from 2004.

Exports are expected to top 20 million units - up 53% from 2004.

Report publisher Mark Saunderson said: "Together, mainland China and Taiwan supply about 60% of all global shipments of set-top boxes".

"The spread of digital television is driving growth".

"Between 2006 and 2010, many developed countries are expected to switch from analogue to digital TV transmission".

"By 2015, all TV transmission in mainland China is expected to be digital".

Makers produce digital TV decoders, cable TV boxes, satellite receivers and Internet-capable set-top boxes.

Saunderson added: "Competition is growing in this segment, with many companies reducing export prices".

"All interviewed suppliers have made, or are in the process of making, price cuts of 5% or more".

"In the next two years makers are expected to concentrate on product development for the automotive market".

"New in-vehicle set-top products are expected to be capable of Internet functions and high-definition TV reception".

The 115-page report (priced at US $495) profiles 36 leading suppliers.

It also provides specifications for 110 popular export products and provides analysis of industry pricing, production capacity, research and development spending and manufacturing processes.

Global Sources' China Bureau compiled the report from on-site factory visits, face-to-face interviews and extensive questionnaires.