STMicroelectronics Introduces Step-Change in CPU Performance in Set-Top Box Decoder Chip

STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), the world's largest supplier of silicon chips for set-top boxes and multimedia systems(1), has introduced a new range of MPEG-2 decoder chips for low-cost Set-Top Boxes (STBs) and DVD recording, which increase the available computing power by over five times compared to earlier devices. The new STx5300 family is pin-compatible with ST's popular STi5100 -- allowing existing hardware designs to be reused -- yet provides a step change in performance to match the increasing demands of interactive TV applications, both now and in the future.

The integrated CPU of the STx5300 is a 300MHz ST231 core, a member of the ST200 series which was designed specifically for video and audio streaming applications such as MPEG-2, MPEG-4 and MP3 in digital consumer applications, where high performance, low silicon implementation costs and low power consumption must be combined with rapid development to ensure minimum time-to-market. The ST200 delivers an EEMBC ConsumerMark(2) of 37.2 while maintaining the low power benefits of a lower clock frequency. Full software development support is provided through evaluation boards and complete STAPI software (ST's Application Programming Interface).

As well as driving advanced end-user applications, the core has power to spare to implement system services in software, thereby reducing costs for STB manufacturers. The STx5300 family provides support for the Linux operating system, an emerging requirement for many operators, in addition to supporting legacy software.

"With an increase of over 500% in on-chip processing power we are providing consumer electronics manufacturers with the capability to support the demanding interactive TV applications of today and tomorrow," said Armando Caltabiano, VP and General Manager of the Retail and Satellite Division of ST's Home Entertainment Group. "At the same time the ability to save hardware by implementing more system functions in software will reduce production costs in this very price-sensitive market."

The new device embeds a USB2 Host interface which allows peripherals to be easily added to a basic STB in order to provide a low cost upgrade path for additional functionality. In particular, it would allow the STB in the field to become a Digital Video Recorder (DVR), by the addition of a hard disk drive.

The STx5300 decoders are available in a low-cost 27x27 PBGA package, with a pin-out that allows a two-layer PCB design. Samples are available now, with volume production scheduled for Q3 2005 and are priced at $11 when purchased in production volumes.

This press release is also available at
http://www.st.com/stonline/press/news/year2005/p1604h.htm

... ... with links to further information on the STi5301 and ST's complete range of MPEG-2 decoder ICs and set-top box chips.

About STMicroelectronics
STMicroelectronics is a global leader in developing and delivering semiconductor solutions across the spectrum of microelectronics applications. An unrivalled combination of silicon and system expertise, manufacturing strength, Intellectual Property (IP) portfolio and strategic partners positions the Company at the forefront of System-on-Chip (SoC) technology and its products play a key role in enabling today's convergence markets. The Company's shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange, on Euronext Paris
and on the Milan Stock Exchange. In 2003, the Company's net revenues were $7.24 billion and net earnings were $253 million. Further information on ST can be found at http://www.st.com.

(1) MPEG Video ICs: The Buzz Around MPEG-4 AVC. Instat June 2005
(2) http://www.eembc.org


SOURCE STMicroelectronics
Web Site: http://www.st.com

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