STMicroelectronics and NDS Announce Certification of New Security Technologies in Latest Generation Set-Top Box Chips

GENEVA, Dec. 7, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a global semiconductor leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronic applications and a leader in set-top box systems-on-chips, in support of its focus on trust and data security has announced the availability of set-top box decoder chips certified for next-generation security and content protection technologies that include the NDS VideoGuard Security Kernel and DVB-CSA3 descrambler system.

The first ST device to implement these technologies is ST's STi7108 decoder IC, which delivers enhanced user experiences and allows consumers to experience broadcast, Internet or personal content on the TV, intuitively and at any time. The STi7108 joins ST's successful STi710x video decoders, and also provides features to support 3D graphics user controls, 3D TV, content protection, and rich connections to external devices.

The NDS Security Kernel is the latest generation of embedded security solutions from NDS designed to protect media content and operator services with future-proof technology to address changing market needs. The security kernel, an element of the NDS VideoGuard content protection solution, features the increased levels of security required to enable new digital media marketplaces with solutions such as Control Word Protection and the ability to enable DRM technologies.

In addition to the NDS Security Kernel, the STi7108 provides support for DVB-CSA3, which is the latest generation of broadcast descrambler specifications licensed by ETSI. This new specification is designed to replace DVB-CSA2 and provide protection against the next generation of attacks against descramblers that are likely to become viable in a few years time.

"The pay-TV industry relies on the principle that revenues must be protected to enable investment in content and service innovation. The NDS Security Kernel provides the foundation for current and future security advancements and through integration with chip manufacturers such as ST, our pay-TV operator customers have the choice of market leading chipsets with the knowledge that their platforms remain secure," commented Martin Kaufmann, Vice President Consumer Device Platforms, NDS.

"Today's networked home-multimedia platforms support high-value experiences and freedom for consumers, which emphasizes the rise in need for continuous improvements in security to protect content and services," said Laurent Remont, General Manager for ST's Connected Home Division. "By announcing certification of set-top box ICs to the latest NDS Security Kernel, ST stands out as the technology leader in this marketplace."

The STi7108 with the NDS VideoGuard Security Kernel and DVB-CSA3 is in volume production.

About the STi7108:

The STi7108 is a high-end set-top box IC that combines ST's Faroudja^® technology for outstanding video performance, a 3D graphics processor, support for high-performance gaming and Internet content, and connections for peripherals such as Digital Video Recorder (DVR) storage. It is capable of decoding video in industry-standard formats such as H.264, MVC, MPEG2, VC-1, WMV9 Internet video and MPEG4 part 2, at high-definition resolutions up to 1080p 50/60. It also provides full-resolution HD 3DTV over HDMI 1.4 with HDCP copy protection. Support for content sharing, according to the Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) specification, also allows use in HD media players and OTT (Over The Top) set-top boxes.

About NDS

NDS Group Ltd. creates the technologies and applications that enable pay-TV operators to securely deliver digital content to TV STBs (set-top boxes), DVRs (digital video recorders), PCs, mobiles and other multimedia devices. Over 80 of the world's leading pay-TV platforms rely on NDS solutions to protect and enhance their businesses. VideoGuard^® is the world's market-leading conditional access (CA) and digital rights management (DRM) technology, currently deployed on 161 million active devices, and safeguarding pay-TV service revenues exceeding $50 billion. NDS middleware, including MediaHighway^® which enables a host of advanced services for subscribers, has been deployed on 206 million devices. NDS DVR technology, centred around XTV™, is a leader in global industry with 45 million units deployed. (Deployment figures as of 30th September 2011).

Headquartered in the UK, with over 5000 employees, NDS remains committed to investing in technology and development with over 75% of its employees dedicated to pioneering work at development centres in France, India, Israel, Korea, UK and US. NDS has also implemented a host of initiatives aimed at reducing its carbon footprint and helping digital TV subscribers reduce energy consumption.

NDS Group Ltd. is a private company owned by the Permira Funds and News Corporation. See www.nds.com for more information.

About STMicroelectronics

STMicroelectronics is a global leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications with innovative semiconductor solutions. ST aims to be the undisputed leader in multimedia convergence and power applications leveraging its vast array of technologies, design expertise and combination of intellectual property portfolio, strategic partnerships and manufacturing strength. In 2010, the Company's net revenues were $10.35 billion. Further information on ST can be found at www.st.com. 

SOURCE STMicroelectronics