Atmel's latest DVD Single Chip (SoC) is based on 0.13 micron technology and is capable of supporting Blue Laser and Red Laser technologies. "Atmel's DVD-SoC is an advanced architecture taking advantage of a Partial Response, Maximum Likelihood (PRML) read channel which uses advanced mixed-signal and Digital Signal Processing (DSP), Optical Disc controller, servo logic and two 32-bit embedded microprocessors offering superior performance, scalability, integration and power efficiency for DVD-Recorder applications," said Mehdi Bathaee, General Manager for the Network-Storage group.

Atmel offers complete development platforms for Blue Laser and Red Laser OPU (Optical Pick-Up Unit), enabling customers to start system development with their own preferred OPU hardware. Development platforms include the Atmel AT78C4050 and AT78C3007 Motor Driver, Flash memory, Laser Diode Driver Integrated Circuit (LDDIC) and Photo Detector Integrated Circuit (PDIC). Complete reference design platforms including firmware and board support packages provide a complete tool for accelerated customer development.

"This technology enables us to reduce risk, accelerate time-to-market, and produce cost effective solutions that can span multiple product generations. Such technologies include portable recorders, and Digital DVD-Camcorders. This product is especially ideal for high performance and cost-sensitive applications," concluded Mehdi Bathaee.

The AT78C4050 is available now at US$8.00 in 100 unit quantities. A hardware and firmware reference design is also available.