Micrel Launches World's First CableCard 2.0 Integrated Power Switch And Controller Built Into A Single Chip
San Jose, CA - Micrel Inc., an industry leader in analog, high bandwidth communications and Ethernet IC solutions, recently launched the MIC2569YQS, a CableCard 2.0 Power Controller designed for use in CableCard applications. The new IC is part of Micrel's wide and diverse family of Mixed Signal products and an ideal solution for high volume consumer electronics makers of digital cable receivers, DTV/ HDTVs, digital DVR STBs, and digital satellite receiver applications. The device is currently available in volume quantities and is priced at $3.31 for 1K quantities. A free evaluation board is also available.
On July 1, 2007, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) enacted a Congressional mandate that dictates cable providers fully utilize the CableCard 2.0 specification in new set-top boxes. The idea behind the mandate is to give consumers a choice between continuing to rent set-top boxes from cable providers or purchasing such units from third-party providers. The Micrel solution is the only integrated circuit on the market that addresses this new mandate and the CableCard 2.0 specification.
"Micrel's CableCard 2.0 Power Controller has received wide customer acceptance and is the only all-in-one IC CableCard 2.0 Power Controller solution available today," noted John Lee, Director, Mixed Signal products, Micrel. "In addition, a major STB manufacturer has received a coveted CableLabs certification in both dual S-Mode and M-Mode DVR for a STB containing the Micrel device. This is the only STB to-date to receive such a certification."
Micrel's MIC2569YQS is designed to supply power to CableCard 2.0 cards in CableCard host systems. The device supports both S-Mode (Single Stream Video) and M-Mode (Multiple Stream Video) through a simple-to-control parallel interface. All voltage switching is soft-start at turn-on and break-before-make when changing between different voltage supplies. Output capacitors may be discharged during internal shunting of FETs. Built-in current limiting protects both VCC and VPP output lines of the host system from card faults and accidental short circuits. The IC also provides a FAULT/signal to indicate that an over-current or fault condition exists and is equipped with internal thermal monitoring circuitry to protect the device itself in the event of a sustained over-current condition.
The MIC2569YQS is available in a space saving 16 pin QSOP package. Data sheets and support documentation can be found on Micrel's web site at: http://www.micrel.com.
SOURCE: Micrel Inc.