14 DAY TRIAL // Texas Instruments is one of those companies that makes various sorts of processors, such as digital media chips, and it seems its DaVinci collection has just been expanded by two members.
Texas instruments issued a press release, not long ago, in which it outlines the properties of the TMS320DM8168 and TMS320DM8148.
They are both digital media processors intended for video communications and/or high-quality entertainment, among other things.
The TMS320DM8148 DaVinci is the one intended for low-power applications and was built to be highly software-compatible.
It can play three 720p video stream at 30 fps at the same time, or just one 1,080p stream at 60 fps on a power draw of just 3 watts.
It is optimal for such applications as Skype, video surveillance DVRs or IP net cameras, network projectors, streaming media players or interactive digital signage scenarios.
Meanwhile, the TMS320DM8168 DaVinci is the high-end model and can cope with three 1,080p streams at 60 fps, which translates into 12 30 fps 720p streams.
Video-centric systems that capture, decode, encode, and analyze such streams simultaneously on up to 3 independent displays are the main applications suited for it.
Media hubs, video conferencing systems, multi-channel HD video surveillance systems servers and video broadcasting systems are among the possible outlets as well.
"Quality, life-like video experiences are revolutionizing communications, enriching the entertainment experience and changing the view of video as a productivity tool," said Jim McGregor, chief technology strategist at In-Stat.
"The advancements TI is making in video will enable many of the applications we will come to expect on all devices in the future, such as 3D, augmented reality and mind-blowing gaming,” he added.
“Because video processing is becoming a key differentiator for both system-on-chips and discrete solutions, TI is developing its own proprietary video technology, which will help distinguish TI from competing solutions."