Powerful New CrystalÆ 98K Processor And Audio Solutions From Cirrus Logic Speed Next Generation, Internet-Enabled DVD-Video Player Designs

2-Jan-01

Consumer electronics manufacturers now have a single source for obtaining the most advanced solutions in both audio and video technology with the addition of Cirrus Logicís (NASDAQ: CRUS) CrystalÆ DVD processor. With the new CS98000 (98K) DVD processor, Cirrus Logic, the worldís leading supplier of audio chips, can now provide both the audio and video core processors for the DVD-Video player market. The 98K provides all necessary audio and video processing functions including MP3 decoding, DolbyÆ Digital, DTSÆ Digital Surroundô output support, virtual 3D and multi-region on-screen display (OSD) with vertical flicker filter. With a customer-programmable RISC core and 32-bit programmable audio DSP, the 98K can support all CD formats, DVD navigation, disc control, video decoding and up to eight-channel output. When combined with Crystalís advanced mixed-signal data converters, DSPs and factory firmware, this integrated solution enables manufacturers to rapidly design and bring to market new consumer electronics products such as DVD-Video A/V mini-systems, home media controllers, combination DVD-Video players and automotive entertainment units. ""The introduction of the 98K builds on Cirrus Logicís market leading position in A/V receivers and allows us to fully leverage our leadership position in audio technology by providing our customers a single-source solution,"" said Frank Altschuler, Product Marketing Manager for DVD Products for the Consumer Products Division. ""We now can provide the decoding technology, the products and the customer support for next-generation consumer products. Cirrus Logic is now a one-stop-shop for consumer electronics manufacturers in audio DSP, video DSP, analog audio and analog video."" For system-level support, Cirrus Logic includes proprietary base software through an associated applications programming interface (API) that allows customers to run the core DVD control functions on one RISC processor, while incorporating their own custom code on the second, customer-programmable processor. This dual-processor design prevents the low-level standard operating functions from interfering with the execution of the customerís own code. Consequently, the systems-level conflicts are greatly reduced, saving development time and minimizing schedule delays. Another key feature, the digital video input, opens new classes of application. This digital video input allows the 98K to support picture-in-picture (PiP) or full-screen display of external video sources. This is particularly relevant to designers of digital cable or satellite set-top boxes, many of whom will include integrated DVD-Video players as part of their offerings. Game consoles, automotive GPS units and other non-traditional A/V appliances are also either using or planning to use DVD-Video technology. The 98K supports multiple drive interface standards including IDE/ATAPI and A/V bus. Some next-generation consumer devices will include hard drives for digital TV applications such as pause, rewind, and replay of live video. The IDE/ATAPI interface will allow manufacturers to more easily take advantage of those opportunities. The Crystal 98K processor is sampling now and is priced at $20 in OEM quantities of 10,000. Software is available now. More information about Cirrus Logic is available at www.cirrus.com.

Read More:
http://www.cirrus.com