ST unveils next-generation ICs for feature-rich STBs

GENEVA, SWITZERLAND: STMicroelectronics has extended its strategy supporting competitively priced high-performing STBs by unveiling two new System-on-Chip ICs that allow standard-definition (SD) or high-definition (HD) equipment to share the same printed-circuit-board (PCB) design and leverage software developed for earlier product generations.

“With these two next-generation demodulator/decoder ICs, ST enables TV operators and equipment vendors to satisfy growing end-user demands for differentiated services at highly competitive prices,” said Eric Jumelet, Group Vice President, Business Management, Home Video Division, STMicroelectronics.

The STi7162 for HD STBs and STi5262 for SD products are based on the widely used STi7167 and STi5267, respectively. Targeting free-to-air, cable and terrestrial STBs, as well as hybrid products with added support for IPTV, each device combines the STB decoder with DVB-C cable and DVB-T terrestrial demodulators, plus optional Ethernet support. Each device supports targeted functions for cost-optimized STBs with built-in security features.

The STi7162 and STi5262 have identical pin assignments, allowing manufacturers to save the costs of developing a separate PCB for SD and HD products. Each chip also simplifies PCB design and reduces build costs, as the pin assignments allow a straightforward two-layer board instead of a complex and expensive multi-layer board.

In addition, software compatibility between the latest devices and the proven STi7105 and STi7167 enables project teams to re-use existing software and thereby focus development resources on creating innovative, value-added features.

Major features of STi7162/5262:

* Advanced, low-power 55nm process technology.
* Configurable cable/terrestrial demodulator.
* ST’s proven DELTA video decoding system for SD and HD (MPEG2, H264, VC-1) signals.
* 2D graphics and display subsystem, plus 3D user-interface effects.
* Linux/OS21-compatible application processor with up to 1000-DMIPS performance.

The STi5262 and STi7162 are available now in 27 x 27mm, 620-ball PBGA packages. Pricing is available on request to lead OEM customers.