Digital ICs/DSP: Audio/Video Codec Captures And Plays MPEG-4 Video, MP3 Audio

The GoldenREEL PR818S audio/video codex processes the video in digital camcorders and other video appliances. The chip consumes less than 450 mW yet delivers or plays MPEG-4 video files and handles PC/Internet applications, MP3 audio, and still images. Able to capture MPEG-4 ASP (Advanced Simple Profile) movies with 720-by-480 resolution, the PR818S supports full-duplex performance at frame rates of 30 frames/s with up to D1 resolution and full transcoding capabilities (to and from MPEG-4 and MPEG-2). The PR818S also handles ADPCM audio and other popular audio formats. A hardwired JPEG engine on the chip supports still-image capture with image sensors that have resolutions of up to 16 Mpixels. And, the chip supports an LCD output and packs a PCI interface to allow 802.11 and Ethernet connectivity. In 100,000-unit lots, the PR818S costs $22 apiece. Samples are available immediately.