STMicroelectronics announces dual HDTV decoder chip manufactured in 65nm technology

STMicroelectronics, supplier of ICs for TV set-top boxes (STBs), announced a new dual-video-stream high-definition (HD) decoder chip, the STi7200, intended for STBs, digital video recorders (DVRs) and DVD players. This integrated system on chip (SoC) supports both HD DVD and Blu-ray formats, in addition to high-definition satellite and cable TV standards, and is produced in a 65nm process technology to deliver lower power consumption and competitive pricing.

The STi7200 dual AVC and VC-1 decoder can simultaneously decode two high-definition video streams, providing consumers with a variety of viewing and recording options. It shares the architecture of the established STB7109, doubling the decoding capability of the earlier device and ensuring straightforward porting of designs to more advanced STB products.

Dual high-speed Ethernet ports support the efficient distribution of high-definition content around the home, enabling the chip to be a central part of a home network of equipment such as cable, satellite, IP and terrestrial STBs; digital video recorders; DVD players and recorders; home gateways and media servers. Dual transport stream processors allow flexible DVR configurations, with up to four-channel recording alongside two-channel viewing or time-shifted playback. System connectivity includes dual SATA (Serial ATA) disk drive interfaces, and three USB ports.

ST’s fourth generation security technology is included to protect operators’ content and services, enabling flexible systems backed by hardware chains of trust. The STi7200 supports the Secure Video Processor (SVP) and Windows Media DRM 10 standards, which allow digital rights to be passed between consumer devices. Secure connectivity is provided through a High bandwidth Digital Media Interface (HDMI) and High Definition Copy Protection (HDCP) interface, both of which are required to connect consumer appliances to high-definition displays.

Support for H.264/AVC, MPEG-2 and VC-1 decoding allows the STi7200 to be used across all HD markets. The device also meets the latest requirements for both HD-DVD and Blu-ray high definition DVD by supporting all of the required video and audio standards, as well as the current and emerging copy protection technology, allowing manufacturers to build a single hardware design that addresses both markets. Development support includes software tools, support for Linux, Windows CE and OS21, and low level drivers, plus a range of middleware driver libraries.

Monica de Virgiliis, general manager of ST’s home video division, said, “By doubling the decoding capability of our leading-edge STB and DVD chip, adding new interfaces, and then producing it in 65nm technology, ST is providing manufacturers with the most cost-effective HD building block, which can be used across a range of hi-end consumer multimedia products. It provides secure support for all the HD standards, and enables consumers to set up advanced home entertainment networks.�

STMicroelectronics