STMicroelectronics Announces Polish Direct-To-Home HD Set-Top-Box Design Win

Cyfrowy Polsat bases first high-definition set-top-box design on advanced STi7111 System-on-Chip to maximize value for price- and performance-sensitive subscribers

GENEVA — STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a world-leading producer of set-top box ICs, is to supply its advanced System-on-Chip for high-definition STBs to Cyfrowy Polsat Technology, the equipment manufacturing division of Cyfrowy Polsat, Poland’s number-one DTH (Direct-To-Home) provider.

ST’s highly integrated STi7111 provides all the circuitry needed to process DVB-S or DVB-S2 high-definition satellite signals in industry-standard formats such as H.264 or MPEG-2. Its on-chip processor is able to run feature-rich middleware and graphics applications. ST’s advanced 55nm process technology helps maximize performance, reduce power consumption, and ensure a low cost of ownership for end users.

The chip will be used in products including Cyfrowy Polsat’s first high-definition STB, the HD 5000. In full production, this product could account for 60% of the total units produced by Cyfrowy Polsat Technology this year.

Cyfrowy Polsat is the largest pay digital satellite platform in Poland. At the end of June 2010, Cyfrowy Polsat had 3.26 million subscribers. The company’s investment in HD began in 2007 with the launch of its first HD set-top-boxes. In November 2007, it opened its own set-top box factory, which started to produce HD receivers this year.

“We are very engaged in the development of our own factory, enabling us to be more flexible in our operations and more competitive on the market,” said Dariusz Działkowski, Member of the Management Board and CTO, Cyfrowy Polsat SA. “ST’s highly integrated STB IC provides the ideal platform for us to launch high quality and cost-effective HD units delivering advanced performance and value-added features.”

“This design win for the STi7111 HD STB solution further strengthens ST’s position as the provider of the most widely deployed STB solutions in Poland, supporting enhanced digital media content and rich viewing experiences,” said Philippe Lambinet, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Home Entertainment and Displays Group, STMicroelectronics.

Major features of STi7111:

• HD STB H.264 decoder with integrated demodulator
• Replaces two-chip combination comprising STi7101+STV0903
• 450MHz ST40 CPU with over 750DMIPS for middleware and graphics
• HDMI v1.3 video output interface
• Development support:
  • Adaptation software for all major middleware
  • Linux & OS21 support
  • STAPI drivers

The STi7111 is sold as a kit with the STi6110A, a compatible tuner device.