Fujitsu has developed a transcoder LSI chip able to compress standard definition MPEG-2 video and Full HD 1920 x 1080 MPEG-2 video data into the more economic H.264 standard format.
By compressing the data to less than half the size of the original, the chip allows 2.5 times more recording capacity in hard drive PVRs and improves distribution of SD and HD video across networks.
The company says there is no deterioration in the quality of the video caused by the compression process. The new MB86H52 chipset can also handle two audio channels. Samples will become available in September.
Thomson says it will unveil a new high definition video decoder chip for settop box and PVR makers at this years IBC show, able to decode decoding for H.264, MPEG-2, MPEG-4 and DivX codecs. The so-called Thomson 4230 can deliver output HD and SD simultaneously over HDMI and Gigabit Ethernet.
Sony Corporation today announced the commercialization of “IMX021″, an APS-C size (diagonal: 28.40mm/Type 1.8) 12.47 effective megapixel ultra-high speed, high image quality CMOS image sensor “designed to meet the increasing requirement for rapid image capture and advanced picture quality within digital SLR cameras.” Sony will position “IMX021″ as a key device capable of generating new added value in the high-growth digital SLR camera market, actively promoting its use within Sony and externally.
One of the main strengths of CMOS image sensors is their potential for system integration, enabling both analog and digital circuits to be combined on the same chip. “IMX021″ maximizes these advantages, while also incorporating Sony’s newly developed “Column-Parallel A/D Conversion Technique”, providing each column within the sensor with its own A/D converter.
This system enables analog signals transferred from the Sensor’s vertical signal lines to be A/D converted directly, over the shortest possible distance. It also minimizes image degradation caused by the noise that arises during analog processing, while at the same time delivering an extremely high signal conversion speed (in all-pixel scan mode) of 10.39 frame/s (12 bit).
The days of ultra-cheap LCD TVs from unfamiliar brands could be coming to an end. According to reports, supplies of LCD panels to third-party OEM vendors are being squeezed by surging global demand. No-name brands which have capitalized on the over-supply of LCD substrates in the past now find themselves at the mercy of the market with, with little control over production. Consequently, quantities are falling and prices are rising.
According to DisplaySearch worldwide LCD TV panel shipments have soared 32 per cent quarter-to-quarter and 65 per cent year-to-year.
Sky is expanding its TV by mobile phone offerings. From 11 August, Sky Mobile TV will offer Sky Sports 1, 2 and 3 as live simulcast channels. Sky Sports Xtra will be added shortly afterwards. These new mobile channels will stream all of Sky Sports’ 92 live Barclays Premier League games and live matches from every round of the UEFA Champions League, as well as Coca-Cola Football League, Carling Cup, FA Cup and Euro 2008 Qualifiers. Also scheduled is live coverage of International and Domestic cricket, European Tour Golf and Guinness Premiership Rugby.
Sky is also launching ‘24-7 Football’, a new on-demand service for mobiles that will show goals as they happen, plus highlights after the whistle from every Barclays Premier League and UEFA Champions League game. 24-7 Football can be accessed by everyone whether or not they subscribe to Sky TV.
The service will be available to customers of T-Mobile, O2 and 3, with further operators joining before the start of the season.
Stephen Nuttall, Sky’s Group Commercial Director said: “Millions of fans already use Sky Sports on a mobile phone every month and we think this is the world’s best mobile sports service. Offering goals on demand, highlights and live coverage, 24-7 Football and Sky Mobile TV give people greater flexibility to watch a huge range of sports. Whether you’re at the pub or coming home from the match, you can access everything you need to know, in the palm of your hand.”
