DV Codec Enables Digital-To-Digital Signal Path

Allowing users to design consumer electronics that connect directly to miniDV camcorders over IEEE-1394, the NW721 digital-video (DV) codec provides a bi-directional digital-to-digital path to next generation digital storage, display, and editing devices. The device provides video codec functionality between IEC-61834 (DV) and ITU-R BT656 and promises pure digital audio/video processing, including complete audio and AUX code processing. It also includes real-time output and editing capabilities for both NTSC and PAL systems. Video features include ITU-R BT656 to IEC-61834 (DV) encoding, IEC-61834 (DV) to ITU-R BT656 decoding, adaptive bit-rate allocation, and a standard ITU-R BT656 output video bus. The device processes both 12-bit and 16-bit audio at 32, 44.1, and 48 kHz and includes lip-locked audio/video synchronization. Direct connection to the audio codec is via an I2C interface. Designed in a 0.18µ process and housed in a 256 TFBGA package, the codec supports a 1.8V core voltage and 3.3V (5V compatible) I/O. A reference design, the NW721 DV, which focuses on consumer product development is also available. DIVIO INC., Sunnyvale, CA. (408) 732-1205.