Rambus has introduced a high-performance, low-cost DDR3 memory controller for HDTVs, Blu-ray players and digital set-top boxes.
Rob Dhat, director of strategic development at Rambus, told TG Daily that the DDR3 memory controller interface was the first to demonstrate operation in working silicon at a data rate of 1866 megatransfers per second (MT/s) in a low-cost, wire bond package.
“HDTVs and 3D television sets require higher and wider memory bandwidth. There is a definite need for speed, as frame rates increase from 60 to 120hz, to 240hz, and of course, 480hz as an optimum speed for 3D-enabled sets.
“Now, what we are observing is a trend towards ever-increasing requirements for the consumer electronic market. Sure, PC-oriented graphics and gaming still lead the way in terms of standards – and we are able to leverage some of that memory architecture for items such as HDTVs, Blu-ray players and digital set-top boxes.”
According to Dhat, performance – rather than cost – is the top priority for manufacturers designing memory components for high-end systems and game rigs.
“In contrast, cost concerns are high on the list for consumer electronic vendors, which is why we designed a high-performance, low-cost DDR3 memory controller interface.”
Dhat added that the industry was experiencing a “blurring of the lines” between four primary markets: gaming/graphics, computing, HDTV/consumer and mobile.
“10 years ago, all segments were distinct. Now, there are some aspects that are available on all four platforms, such as gaming. Today, you can easily game on an HDTV, PS3, smartphone and traditional PC platform.
“Of course there are differences, but for casual gaming, the experience is fairly similar. We at Rambus expect the trend of high-end requirements in all four markets to continue and even accelerate in the near future.”
