STB Chip Allows MPEG And Cable To Coexist

Set-top boxes that rely on the QAMi5516 chip will provide users with ability to watch digital cable channels on their analog TVs. The device combines both a MPEG decoder and cable demodulator in a single package, as well as a CPU and what is said to be enhanced graphics capabilities. It meets the requirements of the cable broadcast STB and is supported by a large number of software developers. Other features include support for all major conditional access and middle-ware products and software compatibility with the company's STi5516 and STV0297 devices with minimal software porting from existing designs. Price is approximately $13 each/50,000. For more details, call STMICROELECTRONICS INC., Lexington, MA. (781) 861-2650.