Thomson Debuts Next-Generation Decoding Chip for High Definition Set-Top Boxes

Thursday, August 16th, 2007
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BURBANK, Calif. & PARIS — Thomson (Euronext 18453)(NYSE:TMS) today announced it will introduce a high-end video decoder integrated circuit (IC), Thomson 4230, at IBC 2007 (Thomson stand 1.411). Optimized for personal video recording (PVR) applications, this chip provides HD decoding for H.264, MPEG2, MPEG4, and DivX® codecs, as well as standard definition (SD) streams.

Specifically designed for set-top box manufacturers, OEMs and ODMs, the Thomson 4230 is able to output HD and SD video simultaneously, providing flexible connectivity. The Thomson 4230 supports the High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) output as well as video content protection applications including Macrovision and Dwight Cavendish.

Thomson developed this new chip to deliver a complete IC solution, including digital video broadcasting software stack and reference boards for satellite, IP and cable set-top boxes. The Thomson 4230 offers superior functionality, with dual USB 2.0 and Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) interfaces that support PVR and digital video recording (DVR) applications with or without a hard disk drive connection.

“With the ability to implement a secure video processor (SVP) for the satellite, cable pay-per-view and broadcast markets, we expect the Thomson 4230 to lead the market,” said Marc Crosnier, worldwide sales manager of Thomson Silicon Components. “Thomson’s goal is always to innovate, and with this solution, we’ll meet the demand of customers striving to accommodate the growing high-definition market.”

The dual high-speed Ethernet interface enables delivery of multimedia content across the home network to local or shared storage devices. The Thomson 4230 also provides routing capability that allows customers to build and customize “triple play” solutions including audio, video, and voice to meet their technical needs.

For more information on Thomson’s latest IC developments and products, please visit: http://silicon.thomson.net