RCN to Dramatically Expand On-Demand Capacity in All Markets

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Mon Mar 31, 2008 7:54am EDT

Operator Kicks Off Aggressive Software and Video Server Upgrade to
Bring High Definition On-Demand Offerings to Boston, Chicago, New
York, Penn. and D.C.
HERNDON, Va.--(Business Wire)--
RCN Corporation (NASDAQ: RCNI), a local leading provider of fiber
optic triple-play high-speed internet, digital television and phone
services, today announced a comprehensive upgrade of its on-demand
technology to almost double subscribers' content choices, including
high definition programs, as well as a dramatically more intuitive
on-demand portal and virtual on-demand channels for easier
accessibility.

   RCN's on-demand library expansion will include extensive high
definition and standard definition television programs, movies and
subscription packages. The expansive new offering will be available to
all RCN digital subscribers in Boston, Chicago, New York, Penn. and
D.C. by June.

   "By combining on-demand's convenience with the quality of high
definition programs and movies, RCN customers will have a top notch
television experience," said RCN President and CEO Peter Aquino. "In
addition to the expanded HD content, we're introducing new portals and
virtual channels so customers can get to their preferences
effortlessly."

   RCN launched on-demand services in 2003 with software and servers
from SeaChange International (NASDAQ: SEAC). The television operator's
on-demand technology platform overhaul includes an upgrade of its
operational software, replacement of all of its video storage and
steaming resources, and a navigation software upgrade that will
provide a new, custom on-demand user interface.

   "With SeaChange's new server upgrades, we have the ability to
easily manage and expand the VOD infrastructure going forward," said
RCN's Senior Director, Video Operations Jason Nealis. "In addition, we
are very excited about the launch of SeaChange's VODlink(TM) Portal
4.0, which allows us to provide individual, on-demand channels for
specific network content."

   SeaChange's Axiom On Demand is a complete end-to-end software
solution and a standards-based framework that enables RCN to continue
to be innovative. Axiom On Demand is entirely unique in its ability to
deliver the personalization subscribers crave, the comprehensive
operations efficiency RCN requires, and openness that delivers
strategic value, including support for third-party applications.

   Every video server will be replaced with SeaChange MediaServer MDS
201 hybrid memory disk streamers. Combining the advantages of
standards-based hardware with SeaChange's patented MediaCluster
technology, the MDS 201 enables a new level of cost performance for
RCN's advanced video services. With high-density streaming and ingest,
clustered memory caching, and scalable storage, the MDS 201 is
designed to meet the varying demands of video-on-demand usage
patterns.

   RCN is also rolling out SeaChange's VODlink Portal 4.0, a
video-rich, state-of-the-art navigation interface for on-demand
content with a range of advantages that will ensure RCN subscriber
satisfaction. Without the hassles of difficult middleware packages,
VODlink allows operators to simply integrate full motion video into
menus and user interfaces that can be changed quickly to reflect new
promotions and branding; to enable sophisticated use of movie posters
in screen design; and to set the stage for advanced capabilities such
as DVD games.

   About RCN Corporation

   RCN is a broadband, facilities-based competitive
telecommunications provider delivering video, high-speed data, and
voice services primarily to residential and small-medium business
customers under the brand names of RCN and RCN Business Services,
respectively. In addition, RCN also delivers on-net fiber-based
high-capacity data transport and voice services to large commercial
customers, primarily enterprises and carriers. This commercial
business unit operates under the name RCN Metro Optical Networks and
targets metropolitan central business districts. RCN constructs,
operates, and manages its own networks primarily in the Northeast and
Mid-Atlantic states and the Chicago area. The main metro and suburban
areas where it operates include: Washington, D.C., Philadelphia and
Lehigh Valley, New York City, Boston, and Chicago. (RCNI-G)

RCN Corporation
Richard Ramlall, 703-434-8430
SVP of Strategic and External Affairs
or
Communicreate
Michael Houghton, 703-799-7383

Copyright Business Wire 2008
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