NTT Electronics Releases Single-Chip Codec and Encoder LSIs Supporting Real Full-Spec HDTV for the Consumer Market.

Broadcast-Quality Video Made Possible in Consumer Applications

TOKYO -- NTT Electronics Corporation (NEL; Tomoyuki Toshima, President & CEO), an industry leader in image compression technology, has developed two new single-chip video compression LSIs supporting full HDTV to meet rising needs for high-definition TV. Both of these products have been available in the market since October 2006.

Unlike existing full-spec products that convert 1920x1080-pixel images to 1440x1080 pixels before encoding them, the newly released "Super ENC V" and "Libra ENC" support real full-spec HDTV by achieving direct coding and decoding of 1920x1080-pixel images. They are able to compress and restore high-resolution full-spec HDTV images without loss of quality.

These chips utilize technology that was originally developed for broadcast codec, including high image quality algorithms, and innovative low-delay, low-power algorithms that reduce the amount of calculation required while maintaining image quality. As a result, they bring the possibility of studio-quality high definition images to consumer applications.

With the appearance of these new products, HDTV image quality becomes feasible in a wide range of applications, from professional camcorders to digital consumer electronic products that incorporate video capability.

(1) "Super ENC V" Single-Chip MPEG-2 Codec LSI for Full-Spec HDTV

An ultra-compact HDTV codec LSI achieving both high image quality and low power consumption. The size and low-power design make it ideal for small video cameras and other portable products.

-- High Image Quality
   The chip supports high-definition images of 1920x1080i and 720P.
   As the world's first single-chip codec to support real full-spec
   HDTV, it makes possible studio-quality high-definition video
   images.
-- Low Power Consumption
   MPEG-2 video encoding/decoding, audio encoding/decoding, controller
   CPU, video and audio multiplexing/de-multiplexing and other
   functionality are all integrated onto a single chip
   (15x15mm, 0.5mm pitch compact, high-density FBGA package).
   The single-chip implementation results in low power consumption of
   just 730 mW in low-power mode.

(2) "Libra ENC" Single-Chip MPEG-2 Encoder LSI for Full-Spec HDTV

A low-delay encoder LSI for HDTV, developed for wireless connection of home-use AV equipment, and ideal for wireless TV and game equipment.

-- High Image Quality
   The product supports real full-spec HDTV for 1920x1080i and normal
   HDTV for 1440x1080i.
-- Low Delay
   In HDTV encoding, MPEG-2 TS (transport stream) output takes place
   at low delay of 100msec or less, while preserving high image
   quality.
-- Designed for the Incorporation in Consumer Products
   Video and audio encoding and multiplexing functionality are
   integrated in a 27x27mm, 1.0mm pitch package, with a shape designed
   for ready incorporation in a home STB (set-top box) or similar
   application products.

"Our high image compression technology and high quality images which were developed originally for broadcast codec would allow us to provide new solution constantly, and we are winning high praise in the world market," said Mr. Otake, general manager of the 1st Product Group, in charge of video device business at NTT Electronics. "As HDTV takes off worldwide, consumers are increasingly showing their preference for its realistic images when enjoying live sports broadcasts or movies on TV. NTT Electronics is convinced that the two new products announced here, which defy the usual distinctions between professional broadcasting and consumer electronics, will prove to be key solutions for satisfying such demands."

NTT Electronics expands our business into the consumer electronics market starting with the sale of these two new products by image technology developed in the broadcasting industry, and will promote a positive approach in consumer electronics market.

About NTT Electronics:

NTT Electronics is an industry leader in image compression technology. Our broadcast codec technology is active by an international relay of worldwide sports event, and is winning high praise in world markets. Our outstanding technologies make it possible to provide highest image quality from commercial equipment to consumer equipment. Please visit http://www.nel-world.com/products/video/index.html for details about NTT Electronics.