FMAL develops IDB-1394-compliant LSIs

Bangalore: Fujitsu Microelectronics Asia Pte Ltd (FMAL) announced the development of two new controller LSIs, the MB88388A and MB88389, which support the IDB-1394 standard for in-vehicle multimedia networks.

It is claimed that the MB88388A is the industry’s first device to support vehicle navigation imaging using the IDB-1394 standard. It implements the Fujitsu proprietary SmartCODEC, a video codec specified under the IDB-1394 international standard for in-vehicle video transmission. SmartCODEC, which was developed by Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd., can transmit high-resolution video without perceptible latencies. By combining the MB88388A with the MB88389 IC for 1394-compliant audio, it is possible to realize high-quality, cost-effective rear-seat entertainment.

Both MB88388A and MB88389 devices incorporate the physical layer (PHY) and link layer functions specified in the IDB-1394 standard, with support for 100/200/400 Mbps data transmission speeds. This single-chip implementation reduces the number of parts required. Both of the new devices also implement digital transmission content protection (DTCP) to prevent unauthorized duplication of digital content. Two streams can be simultaneously encrypted and decrypted.

IDB-1394 is an international data networking standard for transmitting video, audio, and other multimedia data over an in-vehicle network. Various automobile manufacturers now view the standard as necessary to enable rear-seat entertainment systems that can play DVDs, show digital TV programming, and offer access to the car navigation system.

Mark Spain, director of Microsoft Automotive Business Unit, said, “We are pleased to see the first fully integrated IDB-1394 compliant LSI product from Fujitsu. We support this standard and plan to utilize it for the Microsoft Auto platform designed to create advanced in-vehicle infotainment systems. As digital experiences grow, software and services are expected to converge in the car, requiring standard platforms and enabling technologies like that form Microsoft and Fujitsu.”

Fujitsu plans to expand its range of IDB-1394-compliant offerings, in view of the growth types of in-vehicle content, and to accommodate multiple data transmissions from peripheral car security cameras, and further system cost reductions.

Fujitsu Microelectronics Asia Pte Ltd