- STi7108 High Definition Set-top Box Decoder ∙∙∙ Meets Next-Generation NDS Security Kernel and DVB-CSA3 Specifications

January 11, 2012, Seoul — STMicroelectronics (NYSE:STM), a global semiconductor company in various electronic device applications and a leader in set-top box system-on-chip technology, has launched a set-top box decoder chip that has received certification for next-generation security and content security technologies, including the NDS VideoGuard Security Kernel and DVB-CSA3 descrambler system, to enhance data security and safety.

ST’s STi7108 decoder IC, the first device to utilize this technology, provides an enhanced user experience, enabling users to instantly access broadcast, internet, or personal content on their TVs. A new addition to ST’s successful STi710x video decoder family, the STi7108 supports 3D graphics user control, 3D TV, content protection, and connectivity with external devices.

The NDS Security Kernel is NDS’s latest embedded security solution, designed to protect media content and operator services with competitive technology to reflect the demands of a rapidly changing market. As a component of the NDS VideoGuard content security solution, this security kernel utilizes solutions such as Control Word security to provide enhanced security levels and DRM technology support that enable the new digital media market.

The NDS security kernel and STi7108 support DVB-CSA3, the latest broadcast descrambler specification approved by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI). This new specification replaces DVB-CSA2 and prevents next-generation attacks targeting the scrambler.

Martin Kaufmann, Vice President of Consumer Electronics Platform at NDS, stated, “The pay TV industry needs guaranteed revenue to invest in content and service innovation. The NDS security kernel serves as the foundation for current and future security advancements, and through collaboration with chip manufacturers like ST, pay TV operator customers can choose the industry’s best chipsets based on trust in the platform.”

Laurent Remont, General Manager of STMicroelectronics’ Connected Home business unit, stated, “Today, networked home multimedia platforms provide users with valuable experiences and freedom of choice, and to achieve this, the security of content and services must be continuously improved. By announcing the certification of set-top box ICs equipped with the latest NDS security technology, ST has solidified its position as a technology leader.”

The STi7108, which integrates the NDS video security kernel and DVB-CSA3, is currently in mass production.

STi7108 related information
The STi7108 combines ST’s Faroudja® technology with a 3D graphics processor, support for high-performance gaming and internet content, and connectivity for peripherals such as a Digital Video Recorder for outstanding video performance. It can decode video in industry-standard formats such as 264, MVC, MPEG2, VC-1, WMV9 Internet Video, and MPEG4 Part 2 at high definition/high quality up to 1080p 50/60. Additionally, it enables Ultra High Definition HD3D TV on the HDMI 1.4 standard with HDCP copyright protection. It supports content sharing according to the DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) specifications, so it can be used with HD media players and OTT (Over The Top) set-top boxes.

NDS related information
NDS Group Ltd. develops technologies and applications that enable pay TV operators to securely deliver digital content to TV set-top boxes, digital video recorders, PCs, mobile phones, and multimedia devices. More than 80% of the world's leading pay TV platforms use NDS solutions to enhance their businesses. VideoGuard®, the industry's leading Conditional Access (CA) and Digital Rights Management (DRM) technology, is currently deployed on 161 million devices and sustains over $50 billion in TV service revenue. NDS middleware, such as MediaHighway®, which supports a suite of services for users, is installed on 206 million devices. NDS DVR technology, centered around XTV™, is a global technology deployed on 45 million devices.

Headquartered in the UK, NDS employs over 5,000 people. NDS focuses its investments on technology and research and development, with over 75% of its employees working at development centers in France, India, Israel, Korea, the UK, and the US. NDS also implements programs to reduce carbon emissions and help digital TV subscribers reduce their energy consumption.