DOCSIS 2.0+ ICs Support Worldwide STBs, Broadband Data

A family of DOCSIS 2.0+/EuroDOCSIS 2.0+ cable modem ICs is designed for traditional broadcast and next-generation IP-based broadband video services. The CX2445X front-end modem chips from Conexant Systems Inc. are targeted at advanced cable set-top boxes (STBs) with personal video recording (PVR) capabilities, basic two-way digital STBs, and DOCSIS cable modems used in bi-directional networks. Key features include three demodulators with a downstream channel bonding capability, which significantly increases bandwidth capacity and enables cable operators to economically deliver video and interactive services to their subscriber base.

The front-end chips integrate four ARM9 network processors and the three in-band demodulators to provide operators with a powerful, programmable solution that supports a combination of two digital video streams and an additional industry-standard DOCSIS set-top gateway (DSG) channel for two-way communications. As an alternative, operators can configure their STBs with three bonded channels, which allows them to achieve downstream data rates of up to 120 Mbits/s and enables the delivery of bandwidth-intensive services such as high-definition streaming video. The ICs also support a wide range of connectivity and expansion options, providing system designers with a variety of ways to connect to back-end host processors, wireless devices, home networks, and other media devices.