GWENT company Pulse Service Centre has joined forces with a global supplier of consumer electronics to provide UK customers with the latest in hi-tech personal TV services.

Thomson Multimedia, which operates in over 70 sites on three continents, has chosen Newport-based Pulse to supply call centre and repair support services to customers using the TiVo personal TV service in the UK.

TiVo allows users to pause and replay live TV instantly, create their own personal TV network and record without videotapes.

The 'intelligent' system can also be taught to record automatically every episode of a series or soap opera. It also learns the consumer's viewing tastes and habits in order to record programmes it considers relevant to the individual user.

"Thomson is a world-wide supplier of consumer electronics globally and an important contract for us," said Nigel Cook, European business development manager at Pulse (www.pulse-service.co.uk).

"Huge success is also predicted for TiVo in this market as it emerges as the most advanced personal TV service available.

"The subscription of TiVo is managed by Sky and we will be working closely with them to provide Thomson's customers with a high quality and personal service."

David Durick, of Thomson, said Pulse had provided a warranty back- up and repair service to complement its increasing sales of TiVo boxes.

"It ensures that our customers receive the maximum benefits from TiVo as a quality product and the service they expect from Thomson as a global supplier," he said.

* Pictured is Nigel Cook, European business development manager of Pulse