Netherlands based NXP Semiconductors has designed new chips that prevent DVD thefts. The company uses Radio Frequency Activation technology, designed by Emeryville based Kestrel Wireless Inc, that makes discs unplayable until they are activated at the cash register.
This chip is smaller than the head of a pin to place it into DVD players along with a thin coating that blocks DVD to read vital information on the disc. To activate chip, register sends an electrical pulse through the coating, turning it clear and allowing disc access.
Kestrel Wireless Chief Executive Paul Atkinson said:
The two companies are talking to Hollywood studios and expect to announce deals this summer
According to the companies, this DVD theft prevention technology can also be applied on various other devices that comprise electric shavers, ink jet cartridges, flash memory drives and flat-screen TV sets by applying it on some vital elements to thwart their functioning unless activated.
Via:CNN
