STMicroelectronics' Nomadik Chipset Boosts Multimedia Performance in Next-Generation Mobile Applications

A key element of the new chipset, STs Nomadik STn8820 application processor, combines distributed high-performance multi-core processing with ultra-low power consumption. The device integrates programmable smart accelerators for high-definition video, multi-channel audio, DSC-class (Digital Still Camera) imaging and 2D/3D graphics, together with a powerful general-purpose ARM1176 core running at up to 532MHz.

Manufactured in STs 65nm low-power CMOS process, the STn8820 handles video at up to HD 720p resolution and plays all major standards, such as H.264 and VC-1, enabling video-on-the-go on any HDTV set. The embedded imaging engine produces high-quality still images at up to 8-megapixel resolution. The audio engines deliver days of music playback in hi-fi quality and the display and graphics engines enable 3D user interfaces and vivid gaming experiences by leveraging the OpenGL-ES2.0 geometry peak performance of 33 million Polygons per second.

A Nomadik companion chip, the STw4820, integrates supply and power management for both the application processor and device peripherals. The highly configurable and programmable chip features a +100dB audio codec sub-system, accessory detection capabilities and a touchscreen interface. An embedded high-speed USB-OTG (USB On-The-Go) transceiver offers fast data transfer and synchronization.

With its high level of integration, the STw4820 reduces component costs and board-area requirements with no compromise in functionality. Compared with solutions based on several chips and discrete components, STs new audio and power manager saves as much as 30% of the Bill-of-Materials and 40% of the device footprint.

STs Nomadik application processor brings consumer-device multimedia experience to wireless mobile devices, said Monica de Virgiliis, General Manager of the Wireless Multimedia Division within STs Mobile, Multimedia & Communications Group. The unique combination of superior processing performance with ultra-low power consumption will enable handset users to watch high-definition video in real time, play music in hi-fi quality, or immerse themselves in the life-like settings of a 3D world.

In addition to smart phones, STs new Nomadik chipset can be used in mobile Internet devices, mobile computers, portable multimedia and navigation devices, and in-car entertainment systems.

Samples of the new Nomadik chipset (STn8820 + STw4820) are available now, with volume production planned for Q4 2008.