NEC developed the chip in hopes that it will be the impetus behind the development of computers, DVD players, televisions and other devices that will bridge the gap between the competing formats.
The “Scombo” chip can record and replay data in Sony’s Blu-ray format and Toshiba’s HD-DVD standard. The chipset is capable of speeds of 5X for Blu-ray and HD-DVD, and 16X for standard DVDs.
IC Insights analyst Brian Matus said NEC’s semiconductor could play a pivotal role in the next-gen format wars. Instead of competing formats driving up prices and confusing consumers, an omni-DVD drive would unite the markets and give manufacturers and consumers more options.
“It’s not good for electronics manufacturers to keep their feet in both camps,” Matus told TechNewsWorld. “It’s best if there is one solution. If this NEC chip can bridge the gap and bring these competing formats together, it would be beneficial to systems manufacturers and consumers.”
“Scombo” features an LSI circuit that adjusts the frequency and position of the optical laser that reads the disc. The chip can also process standard-definition DVD and CD discs.
“Choosing between the formats could be a difficult decision for consumers,” Matus said. “NEC has something that will provide a common ground and lower the walls of distinction between the two formats. That's a good thing.”
According to NEC, the chip will adhere to all copy protection standards for optical software. The company plans to launch “Scombo” in early-2007, with production hitting 300,000 units per month.