Module embeds networked music player functions

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Jan. 13, 2005

Roku has encapsulated its DSP-based "network music player" technology on an embeddable module, to help device-makers add features such as Internet radio and digital music playback to products such as audio/video receivers, televisions, radios, and music players. The three-inch-square module will simplify complexities such as multimedia protocols, CODECs, Wi-Fi drivers, and DRM (digital rights management), Roku says.

The Embedded SoundBridge network music module contains an Analog Devices Blackfin DSP (digital signal processor) coupled with Roku's SoundBridge software. According to Roku, the module is controlled by means of a simple set of commands, and it outputs decoded audio through an I2S DSP-style synchronous serial port and an AC97 interface.

Embedded SoundBridge block diagram
The module will be built on a PC board approximately 3 x 3 inches in size, with components attached to both sides, according to Roku CEO Anthony Wood. Connections for all input and output signals and power will be routed to a single header-type connector. The module also will also have a metal shield covering portions of it, to protect the Wi-Fi radio, and also to enable it to satisfy FCC Class B/CE EMI requirements, Wood says.

According to Roku, the Embedded SoundBridge network music module supports protocols that include Microsoft Windows Media Connect and Windows Media DRM 10, OpenTalk, UPnP AV, Rhapsody, and Internet radio, and can work with "all major music services, stores, and formats," enabling playback of WMA, AAC, MP3, AIFF, WAV, and LPCM file formats. Additionally, the company says the module can play "any song in WMA format," including protected WMA content from music services such as Real Networks' Rhapsody, Napster, MSN Music, Musicmatch, and Walmart.com.

Availability and pricing

The Embedded SoundBridge will only be sold to "volume manufacturers," and will be supplied in a variety of optional configurations for wired and wireless connectivity, including Ethernet and 802.11b/g Wi-Fi, Wood says.

An evaluation board that includes a sample Embedded SoundBridge module is expected to be available in March. "Budgetary" pricing is $50, but will vary according to volume and exact features, according to Wood.

Further details are available on Roku's website.

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