Set-Top and Set-Back Box Devices

FlexStream Set-Top Box (STB) and Set-Back Box (SBB) devices are installed at TVs or monitors to expand the reach and increase the utility of FlexStream channels—both within your facility and at remote locations.

While these devices are optional accessories for traditional FlexStream MX Smart Headend users, they offer powerful enhancements where needed.  These devices are not mutually exclusive and can be deployed as needed throughout a facility to maximize the flexibility, coverage, and control of your TV network.  

West Pond’s STB and SBB units enable FlexStream channel delivery in locations where coaxial wiring is unavailable or where displays lack integrated TV tuners. They also provide Smart Headend operators with remote control capabilities over TV settings such as power, channel, and volume. Some models can receive content and management instructions directly from the FlexStream Cloud—no Smart Headend required—making them ideal for delivering scheduled or urgent messaging across geographically dispersed displays.

FlexStream Players:
FlexStream Channels on IP-Connected TVs

FlexStream Players are intelligent, remotely managed network devices that receive AV content and control signals from the FlexStream Cloud and/or on-site FlexStream MX Smart Headends. Like the MX channel creation tools, FlexStream Players use an onboard web browser to process and render multimedia content — including images, video playlists, and live streams — into an engaging, full-screen AV channel, output via HDMI to any TV or monitor.

Commonly used to deploy geographically dispersed digital signage networks or to extend the reach of MX-generated channels beyond coaxial infrastructure, FlexStream Players are tailored to meet the needs of senior living, hospitality, government, and correctional environments.

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FlexStream Display Controllers:
Synchronized Programmatic Control of TVs or Monitors

FlexStream Display Controllers work in conjunction with FlexStream MX Smart Headend systems to programmatically control the state of TVs and monitors — including power, volume, and channel selection. Designed for environments with limited connectivity, these devices require no additional wiring, operating over the same coax or IP infrastructure used to deliver AV content.

Because both the AV and control signals originate from the same system, display behavior can be tightly choreographed with channel programming for a seamless viewing experience. An optional armored keypad — which can be remotely enabled or disabled — is ideal for environments where limited user control is needed, but handheld remotes are impractical or prohibited.

These devices are especially well-suited for correctional dormitories, training facilities, museums, and educational institutions — anywhere content needs to be reliably displayed to small, local audiences with controlled access to the display hardware.

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Comparison of FlexStream STB & SBB Devices

MX Smart Headend Web UI calendar that controls the state of a device

MX Smart Headend Web UI showing what states are controlled and status

Sample ecosystem with all 3 device types in use.