Rockwell Contributes Key Modem Technology for Intel's Next-Generation Audio Codec Specification; Rockwell Defines Modem Extensions for Intel's Audio Codec Specification; Provides the Required Communications Support for Next-Generation PCs

Business Wire, Oct 6, 1997

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 6, 1997--The PC industry can now more quickly and cost-effectively add modem functions to next-generation PCs thanks to technology from Rockwell Semiconductor Systems that Intel Corp. has integrated into the latest update to its Audio Codec '97 2.0 specification.

Intel announced the updated specification last week at the Intel Developer Forum in San Francisco.

Intel's AC '97 specification is the next step in providing PCs with audio quality that is comparable to consumer electronics devices. It defines new cost-effective options to help PC OEMs support such important next-generation audio-intensive PC applications including DVD, HRTF 3-D multiplayer gaming and interactive music.

Many of these applications require modem capability that until now has been difficult to integrate with the audio portion of the PC architecture. Rockwell has contributed key modem technology to the updated AC '97 2.0 specification so that PC OEMs can more easily and cost-effectively integrate modems into desktop and mobile PCs.

"The marriage of audio and modem functionality on the PC has been a tough industry challenge and Intel is pleased to see companies such as Rockwell support this direction," said Russell Hampston, audio marketing manager for Intel Corp.

The original AC '97 specification covered the baseline functionality of the analog I/O component of the PC, and defined the digital interface to a scaleable digital controller. The updated specification adds new features and functionality that broaden the original guidelines in the areas of high-quality (HQ) audio, modem extensions and multi-codec capabilities. These broadened guidelines are expected to help drive the PC to the next level of convergence with consumer electronics devices, making it the ultimate home and business appliance.

"The modem extensions that Rockwell has helped Intel develop for the updated AC '97 2.0 specification enable the PC to deliver next-generation audio that is tightly coupled with communications functions," said Tom Eichenberg, product line manager at Rockwell. "To accomplish this, Rockwell has delivered the necessary technology so that the required communications functions are supported. Some of the key functions defined by Rockwell include interface and control for DAA, multi phone line and handset support. We're pleased to have worked with Intel on this important specification."

Rockwell Semiconductor Systems, based in Newport Beach, is a leading worldwide provider of semiconductor system solutions for personal communications electronics. Rockwell Semiconductor Systems comprises six divisions -- the Personal Computing, Personal Imaging, Wireless Communications, Network Access, Digital Infotainment and Electronic Commerce divisions.

Personal Computing is the leading supplier of PC communications and media processing. Personal Imaging is the world leading supplier of devices for facsimile products and develops and manufactures semiconductors for multifunctional peripherals, printers, personal video and digital imaging products. Wireless Communications develops cordless and cellular chipsets, GPS, power amplifier and front end receiver components for all major wireless standards.

Network Access offers a broad line of high-bandwidth communications and networking devices. Digital Infotainment focuses on products for the digital consumer electronics information and entertainment markets. Electronic Commerce, based in Wood Dale, Ill., is a leading supplier of call center systems and personalized electronic commerce applications software.

Rockwell is a global electronics company with leadership market positions in industrial automation, semiconductor systems and avionics and communications, with projected fiscal 1997 sales of approximately $8 billion and 44,000 employees. Rockwell's world headquarters is located in Costa Mesa in Orange County, Calif.

CONTACT: Rockwell Semiconductor Systems

Eileen Algaze, 714/221-6849

eileen.algaze@nb.rockwell.com

http://www.nb.rockwell.com

or

The Benjamin Group Inc.

Carolyn Fromm, 714/245-7500

cfromm@oc.tbgi.com