Fujitsu has a spanking new video decoder IC known as the MB86H60, and this time it will boast a maximum resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 complete with compatibility with both the MPEG-2 and H.264/AVC coding formats. The MB86H60 has been slated for use in both TV sets as well as set-top-boxes (STBs), capable of supporting HDTV broadcasting in Europe, in addition to finding it being integrated in portable receivers. The IC used will be compliant with the Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB) standard used in Europe and other regions, being fully capable of of MPEG-2 Main Profile/High Level complaint decoding as well as H.264/AVC High Profile/Level 4.0.

Let us get into the nitty gritty - the IC can support up to 1920 x 1080 interlace mode at 50 or 60fps and 1280 x 720 progressive mode at 50 or 60fps. Other supported modes also include 1440 x 1080i/50fps, 1440 x 1080i/60fps, 720 x 576i/50fps and 720 x 480i/60fps. The main processor used by the IC will be the ARM1176JZF-S, chugging along at 324MHz. Features include audio decoding function supporting the MPEG-1, 2 and 4 standards, 5.1-channel audio capability and a video encoder supporting PAL, NTSC and SECAM. Not only that, you get DRAM interface compliance with the DDR2 standard. This Fujitsu offering can also be hooked up to a couple of 16-bit DDR2-SDRAM 667 external memory chips should the need arise.

Connectivity options about with a quartet of video transfer ports, enabling the IC to be connected to video recorders and a conditional access card to view restricted digital broadcasts. Not only that, each purchase will be accompanied by USB 2.0, 10/100 Base-T and ATA interfaces. The Fujitsu MB86H60 will sip a mere 1.2W of power, making it power efficient. It was developed via the 90nm process technology and is packaged in a 484-pin PBGA. Samples will begin shipping from the end of May this year onwards, retailing for $48 a pop after tax. Looks like the Europeans are going to be a lucky lot this time.

Source: Tech-On!