Thursday, April 05, 2007

Green Hills Software Optimizes Device Software Development With New Industry-Specific Platforms; Initial Green Hills Platforms Target Medical, Softwar

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. -- Green Hills Software, Inc., the technology leader in Device Software Optimization (DSO) and real-time operating systems (RTOS), today introduced a family of industry-optimized software development platforms for medical, Software Defined Radio (SDR), wireless, industrial control, automotive and avionics devices. The new highly integrated and royalty-free Green Hills Platforms include all of the core software and documentation required to develop and deploy a targeted device, accelerating time-to-market, reducing development risk, and enabling developers to focus on application-level innovation and differentiation.

"Green Hills Platforms are the next step in the evolution of Green Hills Software's solution," commented Dan O'Dowd, founder and chief executive officer of Green Hills Software. "By integrating our development tools, operating system and middleware into pre-configured, industry-optimized platforms running on industry-specific reference hardware, we are making it easier than ever for developers to take advantage of our leading reliability, security, performance, time-to-market and cost benefits."

Dana Gardner, principal analyst at Interarbor Solutions, recently wrote in his "Between the Lines" blog on ZDNet.com: "Now that embedded infrastructure and IDE makers like Green Hills have elevated their offerings to a solution level, the next logical step is to tailor those solutions to specific vertical industries. A vertically integrated baseline of standards- and certifications-specific platforms should reduce device development cycles and cut total costs, as well as encourage manufacturers to use software to differentiate themselves in their competitive niche markets

Green Hills Platforms are unique in the device software industry because they address a broad range of applications with one operating system technology: Green Hills Software's INTEGRITY real-time operating system (RTOS). By standardizing on one RTOS, diversified manufacturers can best leverage engineers' experience across projects and product lines while reducing software and training costs. While other DSO suppliers rely on different, incompatible operating systems to address different types of applications, the INTEGRITY RTOS is highly scalable, allowing it to be used in devices ranging from high-volume, cost-sensitive consumer devices to middleware-rich telecommunications equipment.

Green Hills Platforms are also unique because they come certified to the most stringent reliability, safety and security standards for each industry, including those specified by the NSA, FAA, FDA, IEEE and IEC. "Other competitive products have never been certified to the relevant industry-specific safety and reliability standards, making them little more than a marketing ploy," noted O'Dowd.

About the Green Hills Platforms

Each Green Hills Platform includes:

--Green Hills Software's reliable, secure and royalty-free INTEGRITY RTOS -- Many Platforms deliver an industry-specific configuration of INTEGRITY. In addition, some optionally include Green Hills Software's small and fast velOSity microkernel, the foundation of INTEGRITY, which is ideal for high volume and cost-sensitive devices.

--Industry-specific middleware, such as networking, file systems, graphics, audio/video and navigation, as appropriate

--Integration with industry-specific reference hardware -- The reference hardware, pre-loaded with INTEGRITY and the appropriate middleware, is available from Green Hills Software for some Platforms.

--Green Hills Software's MULTI development environment, the most powerful and complete set of tools for optimizing the reliability, performance, cost and time-to-market of device software

--Documentation, including the documentation and life cycle evidence required for industry-specific safety and security certifications and approvals

--Industry-specific consulting, engineering and certification and approval services

The initial Green Hills Platforms consist of:

Green Hills Platform for Medical Devices

The new Green Hills Platform for Medical Devices is designed to meet the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) requirements for up to Class III medical devices, the most stringent type of FDA certification. Class III devices usually support or sustain human life, such as pacemakers and defibrillators. The Platform for Medical Devices includes the INTEGRITY RTOS and the safety and RTOS life cycle documentation required for Class III approval. (See related announcement.)

Green Hills Platform for Software Defined Radios

The new Green Hills Platform for Software Defined Radios complies with the Software Defined Radio (SDR) standard Software Communications Architecture (SCA) Operating Environment. Based on the certified POSIX conformant INTEGRITY RTOS, it enables the development and deployment of next generation software-configurable radios for use in military, avionics and commercial applications, including the Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS). (See related announcement.)


Renesas Technology Licenses SMSC's MediaLB Technology Enabling New Automotive Multimedia Applications and IP for Digital Transmission Content Protecti

HAUPPAUGE, N.Y. & TOKYO -- SMSC (Nasdaq: SMSC) and Renesas Technology Corp. (Renesas) today announced that they have reached a licensing agreement enabling Renesas to incorporate SMSC technology providing Digital Transmission Content Protection (DTCP) for DVD audio and video, including copy-protected DVDs. Renesas is also licensing SMSC's MediaLB technology, supported by SMSC's network interface controllers for its Media Oriented Systems Transport (MOST(R)). MOST is a de facto industry standard for automotive multimedia networking deployed by virtually every major European automaker.

Mandated by the rules of the DVD Copy Control Association, an organization including content owners, DTCP protects digital DVD audio and video transported over a network. MediaLB is the chip interconnect standard needed for connecting to SMSC's new network interface controllers for MOST. By licensing SMSC's HDL IP blocks for DTCP and MediaLB, Renesas will be able to integrate the technology into automotive Application Specific Standard Products (ASSPs) and Application Specific Custom Products (ASCPs) with seamless connectivity to all existing and upcoming MOST speed grades and physical layers, while enabling the transmission of digital content over MOST networks.

MOST multimedia networking technology enables new classes of multimedia applications in automobiles. It facilitates the efficient transport of real-time streaming multimedia, control and packet information over a single optical fiber or twisted pair wire, eliminating the need to run multiple wires throughout a vehicle, and enables automakers to decentralize infotainment functions into various components distributed around the vehicle.

"Renesas' selection of the MediaLB interface demonstrates the commitment of Renesas to supporting SMSC's multimedia networking technology," said Herbert Hetzel, Managing Director of SMSC's Automotive Infotainment Systems group. "Integrating DTCP functionality also enables Renesas to deliver new applications supporting the DVD Copy Control Association's requirements for securely transporting content over a digital network."

"This license enables us to quickly market new ASSPs/ASCPs integrating SMSC's market-proven networking technology, which automotive manufacturers have widely accepted to efficiently connect multimedia applications and distribute content," said Shiro Baba, General Manager of the Automotive Semiconductor Business Unit, System Solution Business Group, Renesas Technology. "We have established a leadership position in providing a wide variety of automotive solutions and powerful IP especially for Car Information System (CIS)/ Telematics with high performance car navigation CPUs. Now, with SMSC's IP for DTCP and MediaLB, we will provide a more attractive solution for MOST-enabled ASSP/ASCPs."

About Renesas Technology Corp:

Renesas Technology Corp. designs and manufactures highly integrated semiconductor system solutions for mobile, automotive and PC/AV markets. Established on April 1, 2003 as a joint venture between Hitachi, Ltd. (TSE:6501, NYSE:HIT) and Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (TSE:6503) and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Renesas Technology is one of the largest semiconductor companies in the world and the world's leading microcontroller supplier globally. Besides microcontrollers, Renesas Technology offers flash memories, system-in-package and system-on-chip devices, Smart Card ICs, mixed-signal products, SRAMs and more.

About SMSC:

Many of the world's most successful global technology companies rely upon SMSC as a go-to resource for semiconductor system solutions that span analog, digital and mixed-signal technologies. Leveraging substantial intellectual property, integration expertise and a comprehensive global infrastructure, SMSC solves design challenges and delivers performance, space, cost and time-to-market advantages to its customers. SMSC's application focus targets key vertical markets including mobile and desktop PCs, servers, consumer electronics, automotive infotainment and industrial applications. The Company has developed leadership positions in its select markets by providing application specific solutions such as mixed-signal PC system controllers, non-PCI Ethernet, ARCNET, MOST and Hi-Speed USB.

SMSC is headquartered in Hauppauge, New York with operations in North America, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, China and Europe. Engineering design centers are located in Arizona, New York, Texas and Karlsruhe, Germany. Additional information is available at http://www.smsc.com.

SMSC is a registered trademark of Standard Microsystems Corporation. Product names, company names and brand names are property of their respective owners.
*1: DTCP (Digital Transmission Content Protection) is a method to protect digital DVD audio and video transported over a network. DVD players are subject to the rules of the DVD Copy Control Association (DVD CCA), an organization that includes the content owners. These rules require that DVD content be protected before it can be sent over a digital network and mandate the use of DTCP. MOST was the first network to be fully approved by the DVD CCA to carry DVD content. SMSC's DTCP IP features a powerful M6 cipher engine and AKE (Authentication and Key Exchange), both required to use DTCP on MOST.


Arthur D. Little Launches Mobile Video Spin-off Alphamosaic; New Company to Commercialize Low-cost, Low-power Wireless Video Technology

Arthur D. Little, one of the world's premier management and technology consulting firms, has launched Alphamosaic, a new mobile video company that promises to make low-cost, low-power video available for wireless devices in the near term.

The launch of Alphamosaic coincides with a $9 million venture capital investment in the company by Prelude Trust plc. Alphamosaic will use the funds to commercialize its proprietary wireless video technology called VideoCore, which allows a wide range of new video functions for mobile devices, including cell phones and Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs).

The technology was developed at Arthur D. Little's European technology arm Cambridge Consultants Limited (CCL(R)), which is headquartered in Cambridge, England. Alphamosaic will also be headquartered in Cambridge.We have developed the technology that everyone has been asking for - a low-cost, low-power method of transmitting video through cell phones, PDAs and any other wireless devices," said Robert Swann, co-founder of Alphamosaic. "As wireless devices become more prevalent, the public is demanding even greater flexibility and functionality while they're on the road. The market is already sold on options like text messaging and wireless Internet, and it's only a matter of time before it embraces wireless video as well."

Recent research forecasts that by 2005, 92 percent of U.S. households will use "personal rich media" (audio & video clips) regularly. On a larger scale, key industry players predict that by 2004, camera-enabled handsets will account for 20-50 percent of the global phone market.

Alphamosaic's new VideoCore technology will allow users to conduct a wide range of functions through their wireless devices, including monitoring their homes while travelling, sending video postcards to friends, and holding high-quality video conference calls while on the move.

"Alphamosaic has the potential to revolutionize the way mobile video is perceived in today's market," said Alan Duncan, Director at Prelude. "This company has all the characteristics that Prelude looks for in its investments: a world-class technical team coupled with proprietary technology that meets a global market opportunity."

"This wireless video technology, created by Arthur D. Little, is a perfect example of how the innovations developed and launched here create continual value," said Claire Ruskin, Director, Arthur D. Little. "Alphamosaic is the latest in a family of successful spin-offs from Arthur D. Little, continuing our long tradition of building leading edge capabilities that meet market demand."

Notes to editors:

Arthur D. Little is one of the world's premier technology and consulting firms working at the interface of business and the technologies that drive innovation and growth. Drawing on its unique blend of knowledge and hands-on experience across global industries, the firm collaborates with its clients to develop significant breakthroughs in practices, products, and processes that lead to dramatic growth and the creation of new value. Cambridge Consultants Limited (CCL(R)) is the European technology centre for Arthur D. Little. With a team of over 300 engineers and scientists, CCL offers solutions across a diverse range of industries including healthcare, telecommunications, industrial and consumer products, automotive and aerospace.


As the Demand for in-Car Audiovisual Entertainment and Navigation Products Increases the Automotive Display Market Looks Prosperous

The last few years have seen strong growth in demand for in-car audiovisual entertainment and navigation products. With the impact of the new developments in telematics and the increased demand for car instrument panels and car stereo display panels, the prospects for the global automotive display industry have been looking bright. This report will begin by examining the current state of the global car industry, before going on to examine the different types of automotive display technology and the size of the various application markets, design specifications, the strategies adopted by individual automotive display manufacturers, and the impact of telematics technology on the automotive display market.


Global Car industry production scale forecast by region, display panel technologies and automotive applications such as audio and video devices, head-up displays, and instrument panels; car display design requirements, major in-car display device maker profiles; impact of regulatory environment

Action Electronics, AisinAW, Alpine, AU Optronics, Bcom, Becker, BMW, Bosch, Chunghwa Picture Tube, Clarion, DaimlerChrysler, DELPHI, Denso, E-Bridge, E-Lead, Ford, Fujitsu-TEN, Futaba, Garmin, GM, Hamg Shing, Hannstar, Holux, Honda, Hsing Yi Technologies, Hyundai, Innolux, Kayang, Kenwood, Mitsubishi, Mobiletron, NEC, Optrex, Panasonic, Panasonic Taiwan, Prime View, Promate, Royaltek, Samisen, Sanyo, Sharp, Siemens VDO, Stars Nav Tech, TMD, VISTEON, Xanavi


Wednesday, April 04, 2007

Analog Signal Switches feature 130 MHz bandwidth

Designed for high-speed switching of audio, video, and data signals in portable devices, SPST Models AS1741, AS1742, and AS1743 feature 1.6-3.6 V supply voltage, switching current up to 250 mA, and on-resistance of 0.8 Ohms. All digital logic inputs are 1.8 V CMOS compatible. Housed in 8-pin MSOP package, switches are suited for mobile phones, digital cameras, and PDAs, as well as MP3, CD/DVD, and video players.

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The AS1741, AS1742 and AS1743 analog switches are ideal for high-speed switching of audio, video and data signals in portable devices like mobile phones, MP3, CD/DVD and video players, digital cameras, PDAs and handhelds

RALEIGH, N.C. (September 13, 2005) - austriamicrosystems announced today the availability of its first family of high performance analog switches. These high-speed, low-voltage, dual, single-pole/single-throw (SPST) analog switches offer significant performance improvements over existing products. Switching time has been improved by over 40% while maintaining superior low on-resistance (Ron) flatness and channel matching. Through the improved bandwidth of 130MHz the devices are ideal for video and high-speed data signals. The wide supply voltage range from 1.6V to 3.6V supports a broad range of designs. All digital logic inputs are 1.8V CMOS compatible.

The combination of very low power consumption, Ron and fast switching speed makes these devices ideal for portable battery powered applications and allows for switching of currents up to 250mA. The excellent power routing performance enabled by the low Ron of only 0.8 Ohms makes these high performance switches a perfect match for low-Ohm speakers and headsets.

The first series of high performance analog switches is available as two normally open (AS1741), two normally closed (AS1742) and a combination of one open and one closed switch (AS1743).

The AS1741, AS1742 and AS1743 are available in an 8-pin MSOP package and are drop-in replacements for MAX4741, MAX4742 and MAX4732. For product specific information and to request samples please go to http://www.austriamicrosystems.com/03products/01_analog_switches.htm

About austriamicrosystems

austriamicrosystems is a leading designer and manufacturer of high performance analog ICs, combining more than 20 years of analog design capabilities and system know-how with its own state-of-the-art manufacturing and test facilities. austriamicrosystems leverages its expertise in low power and high accuracy to provide industry-leading customized and standard analog products. Operating worldwide with more than 800 employees, austriamicrosystems focuses on the areas of power management, sensors & sensor interfaces, portable audio and car access through its business units Communications, Industry & Medical, Automotive and Full Service Foundry. austriamicrosystems is listed on the SWX Swiss Exchange in Zurich (ticker symbol: AMS).

MEMS Accelerometers address different system needs

Featuring SPI/I2C digital interface, 3-axis, low-g Model LIS3LV02DQ includes adjustable bandwidth to eliminate interference from irrelevant frequency areas, and direction detection, which signals threshold crossing along any of 3 axes. Housed in 5 x 5 x 1.5 mm[sup.3] LGA package, analog-output Models LIS3L02AL/LIS3L06AL meet space constraints of small-form-factor applications. Model LIS3L02AL offers acceleration range of [+ or -]2g, while Model LIS3L06AL offers choice of [+ or -]2 g and [+ or -]6 g.

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Geneva, October 12, 2005 - STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a leading supplier of MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical System) devices, today announced that it has expanded its portfolio of three-axis accelerometers with three new models, embedding world-class performance in ever smaller packages. From ultra-compact analog devices to 'smart sensors' with two digital output formats (SPI/I2C), ST's low-power, high-resolution MEMS accelerometers address different system needs and hardware characteristics in a wide range of low-g applications, from hard-disk drive protection to motion user interfaces.

ST's LIS3LV02DQ is the market's most advanced 3-axis low-g accelerometer with a standard SPI/I2C digital interface. Its novel features, including adjustable bandwidth and direction detection, mark the transition towards the concept of "smart sensors."

Adjustable bandwidth provides optimized performance for different frequencies, raising the resolution by eliminating interference from irrelevant frequency areas. In ST's LIS3LV02DQ, the bandwidth can be flexibly changed with a software command, allowing designers to effectively combine measurements of slow and fast motions, such as tilts and vibrations, in one application.

The embedded feature of direction detection immediately signals threshold crossing along any of the three axes. This information helps quickly understand in which direction the sensor is moving before any data calculations are made. Areas of application include intuitive user interfaces in various computer and consumer applications, such as 3D mice or gaming consoles.

ST's new analog-output LIS3L02AL/LIS3L06AL sensors are the market's first devices in slim-and-small plastic LGA (Land Grid Array) packages. Their 5x5x1.5 mm3 dimensions meet the space constraints of the booming small-form-factor applications, including mini disc drives, mobile phones, and other portable electronic devices.

ST's leadership in MEMS miniaturization goes hand in hand with superior performance parameters. The new accelerometers can measure both tilt and acceleration along all three (x, y, z) axes at a very low noise level and minimized power consumption, which is especially critical in battery-operated portable systems.

The LIS3L0xAL devices also offer high temperature stability and tight offset tolerances, and their robust design provides very high immunity to vibration and a shock resistance up to 10,000g.

ST's new three-axis analog sensor is available in two acceleration ranges, the standard +/- 2g LIS3L02AL for tilt applications, and a dynamically selectable choice of +/-2g and +/-6g in the LIS3L06AL, suited for measuring both static and dynamic accelerations, such as vibrations or rollover motions.

"Shrinking dimensions, coupled with increasing performance, and embedded flexibility, open up a fascinating range of computer and consumer applications for our MEMS-based sensors," said Hubert Geitner, Marketing and Business Development Manager at the MEMS Business Unit of ST. "ST's silicon expertise and leadership in micro-machining technologies translate into the highest levels of sensitivity and robustness at very competitive prices. Furthermore, full ownership of the device manufacturing flow enables us to guarantee our customers long-term availability and roadmap continuity."


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