Philips Demos New Chip for Automotive DRM, HD Radios

At IFA 2005 Philips will demonstrate its first dedicated coprocessor designed for in-car entertainment systems to decode Digital Radio Mondiale signals. DRM is a digital AM and shortwave system. The Nexperia-based chip integrates with existing Philips DSP-based car radio platforms, allowing an upgrade from existing AM/FM designs. The benefit of the design, according to the company, is reduced cost and faster time to market for DRM in the car. The single chip coprocessor works with Philips’ SAF7730 automotive software radio DSP and TEF6730 Digital IF car radio front-end to provide manufacturers with a total system solution that supports DRM as well as HD Radio reception.
Philips says evaluation models of the DRM coprocessor are ready for radio manufacturers now.
IFA is in Berlin Sept. 2-7.