Java on MIPS takes charge of Blu-ray: News from Esmertec

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Esmertec and MIPS Technologies have developed an optimal high-performance Java solution for Blu-ray Disc (BD) players. Pioneer Corporation, a leading manufacturer of consumer and business electronics, has selected the joint solution for its Blu-ray Disc devices and plans to launch Blu-ray Disc players in the USA. 'Blu-ray Disc technology will enable the next leap in ultimate home entertainment experience for end consumers', said Andy Parsons, Senior Vice President, Pioneer Electronics (USA).

'We are pleased that our new players will incorporate Esmertec's Jbed on MIPS processors, which delivers superior performance running applications in a small footprint, thus enhancing the overall end user experience'.

Blu-ray Disc is a successor to DVD that provides outstanding high-definition (HD) video and audio quality.

The BD allows 25 to 50Gbyte of media storage capacity, and incorporates a robust copy protection mechanism as well as advanced interactivity and network capabilities.

Java technology has been selected by the Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA) as its interactivity standard and a Java Virtual Machine (JVM) is now mandatory in all BD products.

Esmertec's Jbed software in Blu-ray Disc devices will provide consumers with more options and flexibility in the download of games, audio, video, programmes, programme related information, as well as in 'surfing' the Internet, checking emails or ordering on-demand content and merchandise.

The MIPS processor will provide the power that accelerates the performance.

Jbed running on a MIPS32 24Kc core delivers the highest known Embedded CaffeineMarks per megahertz (Java performance) in the system-on-chip (SoC) industry.

With such performance using only software acceleration, device manufacturers can reduce silicon costs, lower production costs, and upgrade software easily.

'We're proud that 70% of all DVD recorders sold today are MIPS-based, and anticipate extending a similar success into the Blu-ray Disc arena', said Jack Browne, Vice President of Marketing at MIPS Technologies.

'With Esmertec's Jbed running on MIPS cores, our customers can achieve the highest possible Java performance available today'.

Georges Boulloy, Chief Product Officer of Esmertec said: 'Esmertec and MIPS Technologies have always been at the forefront in delivering best-in-class technology in consumer electronics and home multimedia devices'.

'We are pleased that a global player like Pioneer recognises the strengths and opportunities that Esmertec's award-winning Jbed with MIPS cores can bring to the consumer electronics market'.

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