NEC Electronics Introduces EMMA2SL/P Secure MPEG Decoder For Entry-Level Set Top Boxes and Integrated Digital Televisions

NEC Electronics Corporation today announced the launch of a new low cost, single-chip MPEG decoder for set top boxes (STB) and integrated digital televisions (iDTV) that incorporates the latest on-chip hardware security functions demanded by leading conditional access vendors worldwide. Codenamed EMMA2SL/P, the device is designed to help manufacturers of Pay TV STBs and iDTVs develop entry-level systems which include the high performance functions and security features needed to ensure integrity of audio-visual content for cost-sensitive markets.

Modelled on NEC Electronics’ highly successful EMMMA2LL (uPD6111x), the EMMA2SL/P offers added processing power by supporting dual CPU cores with performance of up to 285 MIPS each, as well as an enhanced graphics engine with processing capabilities of up to 32 bits per pixel. These features build on EMMA2LL’s industry-proven architecture and reliability, allowing customers to design new products quickly and easily.

The EMMA2SL/P integrates external components including a voltage controlled crystal oscillator (VCXO), lowering bill of materials costs while delivering uncompromised performance. Newly added security features were designed to meet the latest specifications from CA vendors and broadcasters. The security implementation is transparent and flexible for software development, allowing STB designers to very quickly adapt designs from one operator to another. The security features allow broadcasters to protect valuable audiovisual content, and preserve IP developed by CA vendors, middleware providers and STB designers.

NEC Electronics is expanding its product line-up for cost-sensitive pay TV markets, which are now competing directly with digital Free-To-View markets. This sector is growing rapidly in Europe and other regions around the world where demand for performance and security is strong. With the EMMA2SL/P, STB manufacturers targeting these markets can develop aggressively priced units with high performance as well as security features.

The Company will also provide reference solutions and turn-key systems to help new customers bring products to market quickly. Device documentation, evaluation systems, hardware abstraction software stacks and further middleware support will also be provided.

Availability

Samples of the EMMA2SL/P are now available. Volume production is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2006 and production is expected to reach 500k units per month by 2007. Availability is subject to change.

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Information in the press releases, including product prices and specifications is current on the date of the press announcement, but is subject to change without prior notice.