PALM SPRINGS, Calif. — (BUSINESS WIRE) — Sigma Designs, Inc., 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 Celeron) processor, Sigma's REALmagic video decoder silicon, and Intel's 810 graphics chip. Featured at this week's Intel Developer Forum in Palm Springs, the new design will be demonstrated in Sigma's booth (No. 404) at the Palm Springs Convention Center.

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.

The Linux operating system has recently grown in popularity and is quickly becoming a favorite among hardware manufacturers and software application developers. International Data Corporation (IDC) has projected that the Linux operating environment will grow at a 25% compound annual growth rate through 2003. Sigma is providing key pieces of technology that enable an Intel architecture set-top box to run under the Linux operating system.

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 of our commitment to support a wide range of platforms, including interactive TV software provided by Liberate TV Navigator and Microsoft TV, as well as drivers for operating systems such as Windows 95/98/NT4.0/2000 and CE, VxWorks, and QNX. We are delighted to provide a reference design for Internet appliances that can provide new Internet-enabled applications and services,” Mr. Wong concluded.

Based on the reference design, Sigma can work with manufacturers to customize footprint, feature, and other specifications.

About Sigma Designs

Sigma Designs is an acknowledged leader in the fast-growing digital video market. Sigma specializes in digital video encoding/decoding for the PC DVD market, for video streaming over corporate Intranets and extranets, and for the emerging set-top box/information appliance market. Sigma is a driving force in advancement of digital video technology used in high-speed, high-bandwidth transmission for business, home, and education markets. Sigma Designs' products, marketed under the REALmagic trade name, are sold worldwide through a direct sales force, distributors, and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

 
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