DIVA Consortium unveils new interface for next-generation interactive digital TV and CE networking
(Technology News, 29 May 2008 )
At the China Digital Living Forum & Showcase 2008, the formation of the DIVA Consortium was formally unveiled to the Chinese consumer electronics industry. The China Video Industry Association (CVIA) announced its support of the DIVA Consortium's efforts to create a new interface for next-generation interactive digital television and consumer electronics (CE) networking. DIVA's interface technology promises to combine uncompressed high-definition video, multi-channel audio, and high-bandwidth, bi-directional data transfer over a single cable. Once connected with DIVA, CE devices will be networked locally so they can be easily set up and controlled from any TV on the DIVA network-passing video, audio and bulk data between devices.
Key DIVA Technology Features Unlike current industry interface standards, DIVA technology combines a reliable, high-speed, bi-directional data channel with an uncompressed video and audio channel to allow users to connect, configure and control various home CE devices from their digital TVs.
DIVA technology enables an 8B/10B encoded forward channel for transporting uncompressed video up to 13.5 Gbps, which is capable of handling video transmissions well beyond 1080p resolution with deep color and high refresh rates. In addition, DIVA enables a high-speed, bi-directional hybrid data channel that can operate at up to 2.25 Gbps, and can be divided into sub-channels that transport audio, command and bulk data. The protocol for the hybrid channel can be bridged to other wired and wireless interfaces, allowing DIVA interface products to easily connect to a home network that is comprised of a variety of devices. At the China Digital Living Forum & Showcase 2008, the DIVA protocol was demonstrated working over a single CAT6 cable, with only 8 wires (four differential pairs) to show its potential for rapid and cost-effective adoption.
Major Chinese CE Companies Support DIVA The DIVA Consortium's charter members (called the Promoters Group) include major CE and home appliance manufacturers such as TCL Corporation; Chang Hong Electric Co.; Skyworth Group; Hisense Electric Co.; Konka Group; Haier Co.; SVA Information Industry Co.; Panda Electronics Co. and Synerchip Co., Ltd.
