``The i-4500 is a revolutionary IFE system development that is based on Thales’ proven i-4000 video and audio on-demand system. What is different about the i-4500 is that the electronic seat box under the passenger seat and the RF network that delivers broadcast services have been removed.``

http://edigerati.com/modules.php?name=News&file=print&sid=149

``-4500 eliminates the synchronised broadcast capability of its i-4000 parent system and substitutes a touchscreen for conventional in-seat passenger control units. Combined with iCACHE – which locates the system’s Ethernet data-distribution switches and monitor power supply in easy-to-reach recesses beneath under-aisle hatches – it does away completely with vulnerable, space-hungry seatboxes.

Each i-4500 installation will comprise a server, two Ethernet switches, i-4000-standard monitors, monitor power supplies, and parallel Ethernet and power-supply cabling.``

``i-4500 installations will begin on the Bombardier line turning out new CRJ 705s for delivery from next May. Retrofit of i-4000 on the long-haul fleet is due to begin 11 months from now, though Inflight Canada has declared its readiness to make a start as early as next March.``

George Reeleder(Air Canada)

“Thales impressed me with their after-installation provision,” he said. “I’m fed up with signing deals with IFE vendors and then being nickel-and-dimed to death when it comes to in-service support. Thales were willing to help us with things like content compression and loading – they wanted a true long-term partnership.”

Looks like they had a bad experience with an RF system...to the point where they`re going with a hard wired system... then retrofitting the existing RF i-4000`s.

looks like a mess to me...

doni