STMicroelectronics Strengthens Position in Polish Direct-To-Home Digital TV Arena with Latest High-Definition Set-Top-Box Design Win

GENEVA, Sept. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a world-leading producer of set-top box ICs, is to supply its advanced System-on-Chip for high-definition STBs to Cyfrowy Polsat Technology, the equipment manufacturing division of Cyfrowy Polsat, Poland's number-one DTH (Direct-To-Home) provider.

ST's highly integrated STi7111 provides all the circuitry needed to process DVB-S or DVB-S2 high-definition satellite signals in industry-standard formats such as H.264 or MPEG-2. Its on-chip processor is able to run feature-rich middleware and graphics applications. ST's advanced 55nm process technology helps maximize performance, reduce power consumption, and ensure a low cost of ownership for end users.

The chip will be used in products including Cyfrowy Polsat's first high-definition STB, the HD 5000. In full production, this product could account for 60% of the total units produced by Cyfrowy Polsat Technology this year.

Cyfrowy Polsat is the largest pay digital satellite platform in Poland. At the end of June 2010, Cyfrowy Polsat had 3.26 million subscribers. The company's investment in HD began in 2007 with the launch of its first HD set-top-boxes. In November 2007, it opened its own set-top box factory, which started to produce HD receivers this year.

"We are very engaged in the development of our own factory, enabling us to be more flexible in our operations and more competitive on the market," said Dariusz Dzialkowski, Member of the Management Board and CTO, Cyfrowy Polsat SA. "ST's highly integrated STB IC provides the ideal platform for us to launch high quality and cost-effective HD units delivering advanced performance and value-added features."

"This design win for the STi7111 HD STB solution further strengthens ST's position as the provider of the most widely deployed STB solutions in Poland, supporting enhanced digital media content and rich viewing experiences," said Philippe Lambinet, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Home Entertainment and Displays Group, STMicroelectronics.

Major features of STi7111:

• HD STB H.264 decoder with integrated demodulator
• Replaces two-chip combination comprising STi7101+STV0903
• 450MHz ST40 CPU with over 750DMIPS for middleware and graphics
• HDMI v1.3 video output interface
• Development support:
  • Adaptation software for all major middleware
  • Linux & OS21 support
  • STAPI drivers

The STi7111 is sold as a kit with the STi6110A, a compatible tuner device.

About Cyfrowy Polsat

Cyfrowy Polsat is the largest pay DTH satellite platform in Poland with 3.26m subscribers as at the end of first half of 2010. Cyfrowy Polsat enables its clients to view over 80 Polish language channels, including 12 High Definition channels. All users of the platform have access to VoD service - VOD Home Video Rental. Cyfrowy Polsat was the first satellite digital TV provider to offer a DVR set-top box enabling recording and pausing live TV programs. In November 2007 it launched its own set-top box factory. On 8 September 2008 started providing full mobile services as a MVNO operator. From 1 February 2010 it has been offering the broadband Internet access in the mobile HSPA+ technology. On 1 June 2010 it introduced triple-play offer – television, broadband internet, mobile services - under one contract, one subscription fee and one invoice. Since 6 May 2008 the company has been quoted on the Warsaw Stock Exchange. In 2009 consolidated revenues increased by 14% to PLN 1,279m. EBITDA amounted to PLN 327m and net profit to PLN 238m.

More information at: www.cyfrowypolsat.pl

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 2009, the Company's net revenues were $8.51 billion. Further information on ST can be found at www.st.com. 

SOURCE STMicroelectronics