Sigma Designs Introduces New HD Video Encoder Technology

PL330 Encoder Platform Captures High-Definition Video Streams With Half the Power; Easing the Integration Into Mainstream Products New Platform Will Be Demonstrated at Computex 2011 in Taipei, Taiwan, May 30 Through June 3rd, 2011

MILPITAS, CA — Sigma Designs (NASDAQ: SIGM), the world leader in connected media platforms, today introduced the PL330, a new HD video encoder processor aimed at capturing high-definition video for video calling on set top boxes, connected media players, VoIP devices, video phones, video conferencing, TVs, and video surveillance devices. The Sigma Designs PL330 delivers high-performance, high-definition video encoding (1080p) at only 380mW — less than half the power of other solutions in the market.

Sigma also announced today that Quanta Computer Inc., a world-leading ODM (Original Design Manufacturer), has already integrated Sigma Designs’ PL330 encoder technology into four video conferencing and encoding camera products.

“We are always looking for unique and innovative ways to drive video applications and devices that take video calling to the next level,” stated Ted Chang, Chief Technical Officer at Quanta. “Sigma’s encoder technology does just that. It is an industry-altering technology that eases the integration of high-definition video encoding into mainstream products. This technology paves the way for many great innovations.”

Sigma’s new processor features a highly integrated, single-chip design with a full high-definition encoder, which extends the performance of set-top boxes by enabling them to transcode and record H.264. By combining high-definition performance with a lower power footprint, Sigma’s PL330 offers consumers two significant benefits: (1) the ability to run applications such as Skype video conferencing in HD, on affordably priced USB-powered HD cameras, and (2) the ability for consumers to take video recorded on their set-top boxes and stream directly to tablets and smart phones in their homes.

“The PL330 HD Encoder opens up the market for integrating HD video into a much broader set of consumer electronics than ever before,” said David Lynch, vice president and general manager of the media processor group at Sigma Designs. “Not only does it allow us to offer compelling new solutions to our current set top box customer base, it enables us to take a leadership role in new markets such as home video calling devices.”

Pricing and Availability

Sigma Designs provides a family of PL330 based reference platforms covering multiple consumer and professional uses including set-top-box with PVR capability, web cameras, high resolution encoder boards, security cameras, video phones, video conference systems and more. Evaluation kits are available and pricing information can be obtained from Sigma Designs.