Low-Cost Standard-Definition Set-Top Box Decoder Supporting Leading Security Standards and Multiple Codecs

The STi5202 integrates an advanced video decoder supporting the H.264/AVC coding standard and MPEG-2, together with a flexible multi-channel audio decoder that handles all broadcast audio standards. For content protection, it includes ST’s fourth-generation security technology, as used in the STi7109, which allows the chip to support Windows Media DRM 10 and the Secure Video Processor (SVP) standards, both protecting content and allowing digital rights to be passed between consumer devices.

Additionally, building on the exceptional performance of the mixed software/hardware decoding engine available on ST’s STi710x families, the STi5202 also supports Flash video, DivX and videoconferencing standards, as well as the recently established Chinese AVS1-P2 Jizhun Profile 4.0 level (SD) video decoding standard.

Connectivity is provided by on-chip Ethernet and USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interfaces, enabling the decoder to play a key role as a thin client in a home network environment . In addition, optional HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) can provide SD video for HD displays. A programmable transport stream interface (PTI) manages inputs from satellite, cable and terrestrial tuners.

Embedded in the STi5202 is a powerful 266MHz ST40 CPU core, which is supported by industry-standard operating systems such as Linux and Microsoft Windows CE. ST provides a suite of robust, integrated STAPI software drivers, plus a comprehensive set of hardware and software tools to enable rapid product development. A software evaluation platform and reference design is also available, with full schematics, and with source code for STAPI-based reference software that is compatible with the STi7109.

“We are able to offer our customers this optimized SD solution that will help them to address all segments of the advanced codec market whilst not compromising on security features or on the powerful multi-processor architecture ” said Stefano Groppetti, General Manager of the Cable and IP Operators Business Unit within ST’s Home Video Division. “STi5202 shares software with the STi7109 and allows our customers to reduce the cost and improve the time to market when developing mixed SD/HD products.”

The STi5202 is in volume production now, and is available in a 27 x 27mm BGA package, with the same security options as in the STi7109. Pricing for the STi5202 is available on request to STB OEMs.