This new front end includes a high-performance ST40 CPU, with 450-DMIPS (Dhrystone MIPS) capability, for advanced network processing, and integrates three QAM demodulators with forward error correction (FEC) to allow flexible usage between DOCSIS and the video signal in interactive STBs and PVRs (Personal Video Recorders). It supports both IPv4 (Internet Protocol version 4) and the next-generation IPv6, which makes more internet addresses available to operators and will allow multicasts and future network evolution.

Integrated Ethernet and Hi-Speed USB interfaces provide a low cost connection to the application’s host computer. The STV0498 is fully supported with an evaluation board and software to minimize the time-to-market for a range of cable platforms, including DSG (DOCSIS Set-top Gateway) boxes and high-performance cable modems.

The STV0498 solution is supplied in 386-pin package along with a 100-pin TQFP packaged mixed-signal transceiver, priced together at $16.00 in quantities of 10,000. Engineering samples are available now to high-volume customers, with wider sampling availability in Q2 2007. Volume production is planned for Q3 2007.

About DOCSIS
Cable Television Laboratories, Inc.’s DOCSIS program defines interface requirements for cable modems involved in high-speed data distribution over cable TV system networks, with a market-orientated method of confirming compliance. DOCSIS enables cable operators to provide a variety of high-value services through an ‘always-on’ internet connection, including broadband Internet connectivity, telephone, real-time interactive gaming and video conferencing. For consumers it offers a low-cost way to obtain a broadband connection to the Internet without the significant investment of time or money.

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