CableLabs has released specifications for retail digital cable set-top boxes capable of carrying HDTV signals offered by cable operators.

The High Definition Host specs include requirements for the baseband Digital Video Interface (DVI) with High Bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP). Alternate interfaces including IEEE-1394 (FireWire) with Digital Transmission Content Protection (DTCP) as well as the high-definition analog component interface (EIA/CEA-770.3-C) are also included in the specs.

DVI is supports by U.S. cable and satellite operators and a number of movie studios, according to CableLabs officials. "Incorporating DVI and HDCP into the OpenCable High Definition Host spec is a major step in fulfilling the cable industry's support for this digital connector," said Don Dulchinos, vice president of Advanced Platforms and Services at CableLabs.

The specs are available to manufacturers, content developers and the public through OpenCable's Web site (www.opencable.com).