“Design Based on Intel Celeron Processor and 810 Chipset with
REALmagic EM8400 Decoder Silicon.”
“Sigma Designs(R), Inc. (Nasdaq:SIGM), a recognized leader in
digital video solutions, today announced a digital set-top box
reference design based on the Intel architecture. This Linux-based
set-top box provides a low-cost solution by combining an Intel(R)
Celeron(TM) processor, Sigma’s REALmagic(R) video decoder silicon,
and Intel’s 810 graphics chip.”
“The set-top box can be used as a combination DVD player,
web browser, and e-mail client. By adding an adapter for
broadband communications, cable companies, telecommunications
companies, and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) can also offer
movies on demand. Service providers can also add an MPEG encoder to
provide time-shifted recording capability.”
“DVD has moved from a media curiosity to one of the hottest
drivers in consumer electronics items, leveraging Americans’
affection for both movies and electronics. The number of DVD
players in homes doubled in 1999 over 1998’s penetration. A set-top
box combining web browsing, Internet access for e-mail and
e-commerce, DVD playback, and streaming video applications such as
pay-per-view movies and video on demand provides the features
consumers want.
“‘The Intel architecture is clearly well suited to support the
emerging set-top box technology,’ said William K. Wong, vice
president of marketing for Sigma Designs. ‘Sigma’s support of Linux
is a natural evolution…'”