STMicroelectronics N.V. (STMicroelectronics) has introduced new cable set-top-box (STB) IC, STi7141. The STi7141 combines support for high-definition TV, up to 120Mbit/s broadband, and sophisticated digital video recorder (DVR) functions in a single component, enabling providers to decrease deployment costs while also driving subscriber take-up of new services like interactivity. The company reduces the cost of STBs capable of accessing emerging high-value services.
“To take full advantage of cable triple-play services and enhanced interactive television, subscribers need comprehensive set-top box features at an ultra-competitive price,” said Philippe Lambinet, executive vice president and general manager of the Home Entertainment and Displays Group, STMicroelectronics. “Recognizing this imperative, the STi7141 is the first STB IC to support the latest HDTV standards, leading-edge broadband Internet speeds, and DVR functions in a single chip. This chip will allow service providers to deliver high-value experiences at the same time as reducing barriers to access for consumers.”
The STi7141, which is manufactured in 55nm process technology, supports the new high-definition broadcast standards with three embedded cable receivers and multi-standard MPEG4/H.264/VC1 decoding. By also including a cable modem meeting the DOCSIS/EuroDOCSIS 2.0 standard, which enables an always-on Internet connection alongside cable TV, the IC supports IP-based interactive TV and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) in addition to broadband ISP services. The STi7141 also supports DOCSIS 3.0 downstream channel bonding, which enables download speeds up to 120Mbit/s.
Unlike any other STB ICs currently available, the STi7141 supports HD and interactive capabilities, and also adds comprehensive DVR functions including trick-play modes such as fast-forward, rewind, pause, skip, and slow motion. The latest consumer media interconnects is also supported, including USB, HDMI, eSATA, and Ethernet ports for Internet connectivity.