Qterics
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Technology |
| Predecessor | Broadcast Data Corporation, UpdateLogic Incorporated |
| Founded | 2003 |
| Headquarters | Plymouth, Minnesota , United States |
| Products | UpdateTV |
| Owner | Qualcomm (7% stake as of 2014) |
| Parent | Silicon Image (acquired in 2014) |
Qterics—previously known as Broadcast Data Corporation and later as UpdateLogic Incorporated—is an enterprise established in 2003 that created a technology for delivering firmware updates to digital television devices through datacasting. Its flagship offering is UpdateTV.
UpdateTV
UpdateTV is a comprehensive global distribution platform designed to enable digital televisions to automatically receive firmware updates and software fixes via multiple channels including terrestrial broadcasts, digital cable systems, and Internet connections. Initiated in 2004 and finalized by 2006, the technology was first incorporated into Sony television sets in 2008 and has since been adopted by manufacturers such as Sanyo and others.
The platform functions under the ATSC A/97 standard (Software Data Download Service), with datacasting services provided by National Datacast on PBS stations throughout the United States. Leading cable providers are contractually required to deliver these updates to their subscribers. Additionally, UpdateLogic partners with content delivery networks and internet service providers to facilitate update distribution online.
Television brands cooperate with UpdateLogic to plan and manage software update deployments, which are transmitted repeatedly over extended periods—often months—to ensure successful delivery despite potential issues like power interruptions, limited device storage, or reception challenges in remote or mountainous regions. Installation requires user approval, and all updates are offered at no cost to consumers.
The updates have enhanced various aspects such as video resolution support, format compatibility, channel navigation speed, V-chip rating functionality, user interface design, timer features, among others.
UpdateTV is embedded within semiconductor chipsets from Broadcom, AMD, Zoran, and additional suppliers. Its network capabilities extend beyond televisions to include devices like Blu-ray players, portable/mobile TVs, set-top boxes, and gaming consoles connected through Internet, cable, or digital antenna sources.
Sale to Silicon Image
On May 6, 2014, UpdateLogic was acquired by Silicon Image for an undisclosed sum. Later that year, on December 4, Qualcomm invested $7 million to obtain a 7% ownership stake in the company. Around this time, UpdateLogic underwent rebranding and adopted the name Qterics.