It will power a new generation of set-top boxes and media gateways

Mar 20, 2012 10:39 GMT  ·  By

Intel has been busying itself with new server and consumer CPUs, but was still able to spare some time and resources for making a new media processor.

As some may or may not yet know, Intel markets its media processors under the Atom brand, much like its netbook and NAS chips.

The company has now added a new model to that collection, one that bears the name of Atom CE5300.

Spec-wise, it is a dual-core unit with an advanced 3D/2D engine, hyperthreading support, virtualization, integrated power management and an H.264 B-picture hardware encoder.

The fourth-generation SoC (system-on-chip) also happens to be the first 32nm part that Intel releases for this particular hardware market segment.

Furthermore, it supports a 3D user interface and console level graphics, which means that game consoles can benefit from using it, not just set-top boxes and other multimedia devices.

“[A media processor] is the brains in a set-top box that seamlessly combines the Internet with TV. It means that Intel and service providers are all working to bring you an easy-to-use interface, 3D graphics capabilities, improved search, and of course, downloadable apps and games for your various digital TVs,” the company wrote.

Speaking of potential uses, modems, VoIP processors, routers and platforms for other applications may integrate the newcomer.

Depending on whether or not storage is added to the equation, the chip could power new DVR media streamers as well.

Not only that, but Intel tossed in support for video chatting, which expands the usability from media products to home security, helpdesks and home automation.

“In addition to the main three services offered today from most service providers (Pay TV, broadband, and fixed voice), you will also start to see new services: gaming, home security, IT/help desk, and home automation,” Intel claims.

Historically, Intel's product releases have always been followed by multiple product announcements from OEM partners, and this should be no different.