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Equator Technologies, Inc., a leading provider of high-performance, programmable and power-efficient system-on-a-chip (SoC) processors for video streaming and image processing applications, announced today support for real-time encoding using the Windows Media Encoder 9 Series from Microsoft on the Equator BSP-15 processor.

The BSP-15 processor is the first chip for consumer electronics devices that supports high-definition (720p) playback of Windows Media Video 9 encoded content. The addition of the encoder support on this same breakthrough platform will enable a new breed of digital media consumer electronics devices such as DVD-burners, CD-burners and personal video recorders, giving CE manufacturers an unprecedented, innovative edge with breakthrough video compression technology. At the compression rate and resolutions supported by this technology, a full 120 minutes of content can be recorded to a single CD-R at full resolution.

"This new development with Equator's BSP-15 processor enables the CE industry to tap the dramatic video compression innovations in Windows Media 9 Series for totally new scenarios on consumer devices," said Dave Fester, general manager, Windows Digital Media Division. "We are excited to see the next step forward in Equator's support for Windows Media 9 Series. It's great to see OEM products on the CES show floor powered by Windows Media and the Equator chip, and we look forward to seeing breakthrough products using this technology on store shelves this year."

The BSP-15 processor provides the base for real-time encoding of full-resolution (D1) video with a software implementation of Windows Media Video 9. The BSP-15 processor can be used in full-resolution digital video cameras, CD-burners, DVD- burners, personal video recorders, or other consumer-level video recording devices that want to offer a step up in video quality, reduce video storage requirements or support an end-to-end Windows Media interoperable suite of devices.

"The Windows Media Encoder 9 Series on our BSP-15 chip family provides unbeatable value for OEMs looking to differentiate and future-proof their offerings," said Rich Christopher, president and CEO of Equator Technologies. "Our DVD reference designs incorporate these capabilities and the software pairing with Windows Media 9 Series technology makes it a reality for 2003 products. We are pleased to be working with Microsoft and to enable OEMs with such capabilities."

Equator will demonstrate real-time Windows Media 9 Series encoding during CES 2003 at booth #22197 in the South Hall.