Samsung Launches Mobile DTV Chip

On the same day that the ATSC announced the approval of the Mobile DTV standard, Samsung Electronics introduced what it touts as the industry’s “first single chip” compatible with the new standard.

Samsung, a key developer of the ATSC standard, said the chip combines the radio frequency (RF) and digital chip components into one single 65 nm-scale chip. Compared to multi-traditional chipsets, the single chip provides makers of various mobile devices, including mobile phones, car-mounted televisions and portable media players an “optimal solution” that is more compact, uses less power and is more affordable.

“Prior to Samsung’s technical demonstration at the 2006 NAB Show, industry experts believed that the compatibility of mobile TV broadcasting technology with the existing ATSC broadcasting system was not possible.” said Byung Duck Cho, executive vice president of the digital media and communications R&D center of Samsung Electronics. “In early 2005, Samsung Electronics decided to apply significant resources to ATSC standardization. “Samsung succeeded in ATSC Mobile DTV standardization through its dedication and support in cooperation with the ATSC, broadcasters, and other electronics manufacturers. Through this collaborative accomplishment, Samsung Electronics aims to advance its leadership in the North American mobile market with mobile TV.”