Softier has introduced a software reference design for IP-STBs (Internet protocol set-top boxes) that run Linux on a DSP (digital signal processor). The design is said to save money versus dual-chip RISC/DSP IP-STB designs, since it uses a single inexpensive DSP chip. It targets high-volume IP-STB manufacturers.

The Softier design is available as an add-on for Texas Instruments's (TI's) EVM642 Evaluation Board for the DM64x DSP, a powerful “programmable” DSP that is generally used as a media co-processor in IP-STB designs such as the i3 Mood Box. Whereas i3 used the DM64x's programmability to enable loading CODECs on the fly, Softier actually ported Linux to the chip, announcing on Nov. 5 of 2003 what may have been the first-ever port of Linux to a DSP (another contender is Metrowerks's Linux port to the ADI Blackfin).

Softier's new IP-STB reference design is based on its Linux Multimedia Platform and Tool Kit (LDDK), which includes Media Linux for TI DSPs along with TI's Code Composer Studio IDE (integrated development environment).

Softier's IP-STB reference design is based on its LDDK, shown in the diagram above

Additional software components, options, and features include:

• Streaming software for PCs that can simulate IP-TV services for purposes of development
• Decoders for D1 resolution playback of “all major A/V standards,” including MPEG-2, H.264, WM9, MP3, and AAC, licensed through Softier from a range of technology partners
• Integrated support for key peripherals such as IR, Ethernet, USB, and HDD (hard disk drive)
• Fresco HTML browser from ANT Corp., for building UI elements, interfaces to EPGs (electronic program guides), and stock ticker displays
• Web-based management (HTTP server) and remote update capability

Business Development Manager Arnaud Duclap said, “We are encouraged to see leading manufacturers adopting this novel and cost effective approach.”

TI will demonstrate the Softier reference design at its booth at IBC (International Broadcasters Convention) in Amsterdam, September 10-14, and at ESC (Embedded Systems Conference) in Boston, September 14-16.

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