In Brief: Network Securer Launches Payment Product

Wave Systems Corp., which offers technology for secure distribution of digital data and programs over cable and communications lines, said it has launched the Wave Direct electronic commerce service.

Wave Direct is to be incorporated in $149 WinTV Theater Tuner Boards from Hauppauge Digital Inc., a leading developer and manufacturer of analog and digital video and data receiver products for personal computers.

Wave Direct is part of Wave Systems' strategy to turn PCs or other devices into "trusted clients," enabling secure and authorized purchases and various payment options such as pay-per-use and rent-to-own.

The product debut is "a milestone for the company and a critical first step in the deployment of our multichannel content distribution network," said Steven Sprague, president of Wave Systems. "Wave Direct offers the first glimpse into a future where users will have access to convenient and flexible purchase options."