STB Chips Trim Part Counts

Supporting added-value functions, the STi5197 and STi5189 ICs for cable and satellite set-top boxes (STBs), respectively, share a common architecture and are software compatible. The single-chip STB ICs enable manufacturers promise to increase product performance and implement added-value features using fewer components. The STi5197 includes a QAM demodulator and the STi5189 includes a QPSK demodulator. Both devices share a common architecture for MPEG-2 audio/video-decoding and application-processing functions that reportedly saves product development time, lowers bill-of-material costs, and simplifies pc-board design to deliver highly price-competitive products into global markets. The STi5197 supports DVB-C including ITU-T J83 Annexes A/B/C, and TSMF (Transport Stream Multiplex Frame). The STi5189 supports DVB-S for satellite. All industry-standard middleware and browsers are also supported. Additionally, both ICs support all major conditional-access security schemes with integrated DVB, DES, Multi2, and ICAM descramblers as well as a smart-card interface. Both devices are available in a choice of 23 mm x 23mm PBGA or 15 mm x 15 mm LFBGA package. For prices, call STMICROELECTRONICS, Lexington, MA. (888) 787-3550.