Analog Devices Introduces Four-Way Signal Splitting Device Enabling Converged Cable and Computing in Set-Top Boxes.

NORWOOD, Mass. -- New active RF splitter delivers lowest noise and distortion in smallest footprint for simultaneous TV viewing, recording, Internet access, and picture-in-picture

Analog Devices Inc. (NYSE: ADI), a global leader in high-performance semiconductors for signal processing applications, today introduced an active RF splitter IC that uses innovative four-way signal-splitting technology to resolve design challenges in multi-tuner cable set-top boxes (STBs) and advanced televisions that need to simultaneously deliver video or data content to multiple applications, enabling features such as picture-in-picture capability and personal video recording. By dividing an input into four outputs without degrading the signal quality, the device enables the lowest noise and distortion, while reducing design work and overall system cost. The lower noise and distortion levels allow systems to be sensitive to smaller signals, resulting in fewer signal interruptions and clearer pictures. Unlike some existing solutions that require 20 percent more components to split the signal and amplify power while maintaining signal integrity, the ADA4302-4 active RF splitter offers these functions with a 2 dB lower noise figure and 16 dB better CSO (composite second order distortion), all within a compact (4 mm x 4 mm), single-chip solution.

"For cable set-top box manufacturers to achieve functionality beyond just receiving and decoding digital broadcast signals, RF system designers require advanced signal splitting technology," said Curt Ventola, product line director, Analog Devices. "For example, an STB equipped with Analog Devices' ADA4302-4 can receive one incoming signal and divide and deliver it to four tuners, or three tuners and a cable modem, enabling a consumer to simultaneously view one televised program, set a digital video recorder for recording another program, use a cable modem to access the Internet, and run picture-in-picture settings."

Today, manufacturers of STBs use multiple tuners to provide program viewing with simultaneous recording and cable modem operation. The advent of multi-tuner applications, combined with the growing consumer demand for digital cable and interactive voice and data services, is driving the need for components that split a signal into multiple outputs while maintaining signal integrity and amplifying signal power.

"An estimated 70 percent of all North American households currently subscribe to cable television services," said Vamsi Sistla, Director of Broadband Research for ABI Research, an industry analyst firm. "The convergence of STB and computing technologies is creating opportunities for smaller manufacturers to gain ground and as such, advances in component-level technology are becoming increasingly important. Enhanced functionality will not only drive innovation, but will also help manufacturers further differentiate themselves through advanced features or low price."

About the ADA4302-4

STB manufacturers depend on analog components to meet distortion and noise requirements and ensure that signals are received and processed properly. The ADA4302-4 active RF 1:4 splitter receives one incoming analog or digital video signal, boosts its strength by 4.5 dB, divides it into four differential outputs, and delivers each to a separate tuner or modem without degrading the signal quality.

The ADA4302-4 can also be configured for applications that require fewer than four outputs. Within an RF system, as the part splits a signal it strikes a unique balance between two fundamental performance trade offs--voltage noise and harmonic distortion--to maintain linearity. It receives downstream video channels and has a noise figure of only 4.5 dB. The device also sustains signal integrity by maintaining a CTB (composite triple beat) better than 70 dBc and a CSO better than 80 dBc.

The ADA4302-4 is fabricated on Analog Devices' advanced SiGe (silicon germanium) complementary bipolar process. It also complements other Analog Devices products used in the STB signal chain, including upstream cable amplifiers (such as the AD8324) and MxFE(R) (mixed-signal front-end) devices (such as the AD9877, AD9878 and AD9879).

Analog Devices' active splitter is suitable for use in STB and other advanced television systems such as HDTV, as well as STV (standard definition television) display formats. It also can be integrated into televisions with built-in digital tuners and can be used in graphics and PC TV tuner cards.

Pricing and Availability

The ADA4302-4 is available in a tiny 4 mm x 4 mm LFCSP (lead frame chip-scale package). The device is priced at $2.60 per unit in 1,000-piece quantities. For more information, please visit: www.analog.com/ADA4302-4.

About Analog Devices

Analog Devices is a leading manufacturer of precision high-performance integrated circuits used in analog and digital signal processing applications. The company is headquartered in Norwood, Massachusetts, and employs approximately 9,000 people worldwide. It has manufacturing facilities in Massachusetts, California, North Carolina, Ireland, the Philippines and the United Kingdom. Analog Devices' stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and the company is included in the S&P 500 Index.

MxFE is a registered trademark of Analog Devices, Inc.