STEP ASIDE CUBE: THE BIG BOYS ARE MOVING IN!
CONSUMER MUTIMEDIA REPORT via Individual INC.: Breaking ranks with Microsoft and PC makers that insist broadcasters transmit only standard- definition ( SD) 480p digital TV (DTV) signal that can be displayed on PCs, chipmaker Intel this month demonstrated software that would convert all DTV resolution formats for display on monitors of any capability. System, based on Hitachi-developed All format Decoder ( AFD) proposed 2 years ago, was shown shortly after Intel applied to FCC for license to run experiential DTV station( CMR DEC 8 p5).
This month's events gave 2nd indication that Intel is moving swiftly to develop and market technology for DTV in time for launch of broadcasts next Nov. Company recently told us it's working on chipsets for DTV products, thereby expanding supply to be available from Lucent and Mitsubishi, Motorola and Sarnoff, and individual TV set makers. Chipmaker also is working on technology for DVD and DVD-ROM, as is Microsoft.
"Business Reality" was impetus behind decision to support all-format DTV reception for PCs, Intel spokeswoman said. ......
Intel now contends its economically feasible to perform all-format reception through SOFTWARE IMPLEMENTATION. Spokeswoman told us company plans to make AFD chips for outboard converter box, conventional desktop PCs, PC/TV-convergence home theater. It's a new opportunity for Intel, and we hope to bring affordable DTV to the market, she said. Besides accepting multiple formats and converting incoming signal to best resolution display can handle, receivers will handle any transport mode-broadcast,cable,satellite.
Intel didn't speculate on pricing of software system, but in past Hitachi has estimated its AFD could make retail debut at about $300 in set top converter box. Chipset built into TV would cost less, and price would drop rapidly, adding only $50 to cost of set. AFD chipset would carry just 10% premium over dedicated, SD-only processors, Hitachi said. Although Intel and Hitachi haven't signed definitive agreement for licensing or manufacturing, they have been working together on AFD, Intel spokeswoman said.
Preview of "protype content" for interactive DTV programs accompanied demonstration of AFD software. Briefing at Intel's Santa Clara, Cal., lab included work in progress by PBS, Nickeldon and National Football League. Company has DTV alliances with those and others, including Cable Labs, broadcasters and satellite services, spokeswoman said. Goal is to establish standards to ensure that interactive DTV programs can be hammered on all delivery platforms, she said. |
