Fujitsu announced the development of two new controller LSIs, the MB88388A and MB88389, which support the IDB-1394 standard for in-vehicle multimedia networks.
The MB88388A implements Fujitsu SmartCODEC, a video codec specified under IDB-1394 international standard for in-vehicle video transmission. SmartCODEC, which was developed by Fujitsu Laboratories, can transmit high-resolution video without perceptible lag. The company states it is the world’s first chip to support car-navigation imaging using the IDB-1394 standard. By combining it with the MB88389 LSI specifically for IDB-1394-compliant audio, it is possible to realize high-quality rear-seat entertainment at a low price.
IDB-1394 is an international data networking standard for transmitting video, audio, and other multimedia data over an in-car network. Various automobile manufacturers now view the standard as necessary to enable rear-seat entertainment systems that can play DVDs, show digital TV programming, and offer access to the car navigation system. The standard is expected to come into widespread use.
The MB88388A is used in the BT.601 Transport Over IEEE.1394 standard. This makes it possible to transmit video from DVD, digital TV, and car-navigation sources at high resolution without perceptible lag. Because IDB-1394 can be configured as a multiplexing network, multiple video and audio streams in addition to control signals can be transmitted simultaneously over the same physical layer. This means the car network can carry even more complex information over a single cable. The MB88389 controller can be integrated into the IDB-1394 network for lower cost audio networking.
Fujitsu plans to expand its range of IDB-1394-compliant offerings, in view of the growth of types of in-vehicle content, and to accommodate multiple data transmissions from peripheral car security cameras, and further system cost reductions.
Sample shipping of these new LSIs will begin from December 1, 2007. The sample prices are JPY 2000 for MB88388A, and JPY 1500 for MB88389. The sales targets are 200,000 units/month, for MB88388A, and 100,000 units/month, for MB88389.
