ViXS Introduces Laptop XCode II-N Video Processor For Advanced Multimedia



Chip Tightly Integrates Unmatched Combination of High quality MPEG Encoding and Re-Processing with Low Power Requirements


TORONTO -/5 Oct, 2004 - Wi-Fi Technology News/- ViXS Systems, the leading developer of video processing and networking chipsets and software, today announced the availability of XCode II-N, a new silicon video processor designed specifically for giving high quality video capabilities to laptop computers. By integrating all the functionality of a broadcast head-end unit on to a single, compact chip, manufacturers can now cost-effectively integrate advanced media center features into laptop PCs.

These features include high quality MPEG encoding, HDTV reprocessing, high-speed MPEG transrating and transcoding, 3D comb filtering and a mini-PCI interface.

?XCode II-N represents a major advancement in giving laptop PCs the same multimedia capabilities as their desktop counterparts,? commented Sally Daub, CEO and president of ViXS Systems. ?Limitations with video processing, battery consumption and storage capacity are examples of why laptop OEMs have thus far been unable to do this. With XCode II-N, multimedia features that require high quality and high-performance video capabilities, such as watch-and-record PVR functionality and DVD-R archiving in 1/8th the size of the content, are no longer out of reach. We've integrated these advanced features onto a single chip that meets both the cost concerns of manufacturers and the desired performance of consumers.?

XCode II-N leverages many key features of ViXS? recently announced XCode II-L video processor and integrates them into a smaller, notebook friendly chip that consumes less power and produces less heat. These features include:

? High quality dual encoding at low bit rates
? High-speed transrating and transcoding
? 3D comb filtering and analog noise filtering
? Mini-PCI or PCI interface
? Multistream MPEG reprocessing, format conversion and bit rate reduction at 8x-to-24x real time
? Support for multiple analog and digital (including HDTV) video streams
? Programmable Audio encoding into MP3, MPEG2 L2, AC3, AAC formats

ViXS? XCode II-N is the first chip to offer hardware transrating and transcoding capable of reprocessing MPEG streams. This technology allows users to reduce multiple feature-length videos to fit on a single DVD-R disk. Moreover, the process takes only minutes and is geared toward preserving the user?s high quality viewing experience. Furthermore, the high-speed transrating and transcoding feature allows users to copy MPEG streams while maintaining the integrity of the original video clip so that an ultra-low bit rate, low-resolution MPEG stream can be sent via the Internet or to a memory card.

ViXS? Xcode II?N also allows notebook users to simultaneously view and/or process high-quality analog or digital content. This advancement allows such capabilities as picture-in-picture display, simultaneous watch-and-record, PVR functionality, DVD burning and video distribution. Additionally, the chip has built in security with encryption/decryption capabilities and support for DTCP over IP to protect video content from being viewed by, or pirated from, unauthorized individuals.

XCode II-N is available immediately.

About ViXS Systems
ViXS Systems has developed a unique semiconductor chipset and software solution with unprecedented capabilities for encoding, reprocessing and distributing broadcast-quality video across local IP-based wired and wireless networks. These products provide manufacturers of consumer electronics, personal computers, multimedia centers and set-top boxes with a proven technology that operates with standards-based local networks. ViXS components offer full support for HDTV, DVD, satellite or cable broadcasts and deliver uninterrupted, full Quality of Service video for consumer entertainment, personal computing applications, and multimedia gateways. Founded in January 2001, the company is headquartered in Toronto, Ontario and has filed over 85 patents to date. For further information, please visit us at http://www.vixs.com.