Cost-effective solution for multiple high-definition TV inputs complies fully with latest HDMI version 1.3 specification to maintain picture quality, and compensates for lossy cables
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Geneva,
November 15,2007 -
STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM) today announced the first HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface)switch in the world to support a video data-transfer rate of up to 3.4-Gigabits per second (Gbps), enabling full 16-bit color depth — 65k colors — to be maintained for a true high-definition (HD) picture. The STDVE003A is designed to be used in LCD and Plasma TV sets to provide multiple HDMI inputs for external program sources, such as game consoles, high-definition DVD players (Blu-ray and HD-DVD), and set-top boxes (STBs). In addition, its integrated equalizer is designed to overcome signal degradation when long (greater than 20m) and lossy cables are used.
The STDVE003A is an active digital multiplexer designed for high-performance TMDS (Transition Minimized Differential Signaling) data transfer. Configured as a 3:1 switch, it enables TV designers to provide as many as three input ports while using only a single HDMI receiver chip. Signal integrity is maintained and enhanced by an internal active block which receives and equalizes the input signal before transmitting it to the next stage. The device is produced using ST’s advanced BiCMOS6G SiGe process technology.
The high (3.4 Gbps) data-transfer rate is fully compliant with the latest and strictest HDMI specification, version 1.3. Other solutions in the market typically limit color depth to 12-bits (4k colors) due to a lower data-rate capability, even when the original video source – for example from Blu-ray and HD-DVD players – is 16-bit; a 16-bit source routed through the STDVE003A will result in a brighter, more vibrant 16-bit picture. This active switch is cost-competitive with similar products, despite its higher specification, and has a compatible package and pin-out to make it easy for designers to upgrade their current solutions without changing the PCB layout, thereby improving performance and robustness at no extra cost.
Control of signal routing through the switch is by means of Select pins. The device also supports DDC (Display Data Channel) and HPD (Hot-Plug Detect) data switching, and provides on-chip 50-ohm input termination. Flow-through pin-out ensures straightforward PCB layout.
The STDVE003A complements ST’s existing STHDMI002A two-way high-speed TMDS switch. It is supplied in a TQFP80L package, priced at $1.50 in quantities of 100,000. Samples are available now, with volume production planned during Q4 2007.
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About STMicroelectronics
STMicroelectronics is a global leader in developing and delivering
semiconductor solutions across the spectrum of microelectronics
applications. An unrivalled combination of silicon and system
expertise, manufacturing strength, Intellectual Property (IP)
portfolio and strategic partners positions the Company at the
forefront of System-on-Chip (SoC) technology and its products play a
key role in enabling today's convergence markets. The Company's
shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange, on Euronext Paris
and on the Milan Stock Exchange. In 2006, the Company's net revenues
were $9.85 billion and net earnings were $782 million. Further information on ST
can be found at www.st.com.
Information last updated Jan 2007
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