Zayante Provides Comprehensive IEEE 1394/FireWire Support For Microsoft's Windows CE Operating System; TNF Zbox for WinCE 3.0 Provides Unprecedented Connectivity, Interoperability

Business Wire, Oct 4, 2001

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

SCOTTS VALLEY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 4, 2001

Zayante, Inc. today extended its leadership in IEEE 1394 silicon and software technology, introducing a comprehensive 1394 software stack that is supported by Windows CE, Microsoft Corp.'s componentized real-time embedded operating system for 32-bit connected mobile devices that demand rich applications and services.

Zayante's 1394 TNF (Thirteen Ninety Four) software stack provides Windows CE application developers with support for a wide range of 1394 link layer devices, including the Open Host Controller Interface (OHCI) and Texas Instruments' ceLynx (TSB42AA4), a link device which has been designed specifically for consumer electronics products. It includes a full range of protocols including the 1394 Trade Association's AVC protocols for Digital Audio-Video device control, SBP-2 initiator and target for disks and printers, and IP1394 for Internet Protocol.

The TNF software stack runs under Windows CE 3.0, a combination well suited for developers of home gateway systems, such as set-top box manufacturers. For example, the application's user interface can exploit Zayante's TNF software support for industry standard protocols such as EIA 775 and AVC Panel, so that it is displayed on a remote device, such as a digital TV display. This enables the end user to control the application from his or her point of interaction.

Zayante's Zbox and TNF software stack in combination with Microsoft's Windows CEs and Windows CE Platform Builder makes an excellent 1394 demonstration, evaluation and application software development system, providing fast time to market for embedded 1394 applications.

"Windows CE is a very important emerging platform for the embedded marketplace," said Prashant Kanhere, Zayante's President and chief executive officer. "Our 1394 development support, delivered through Zayante's TNF Zbox platform, brings an unprecedented level of product connectivity and interoperability over the IEEE 1394 bus. It simplifies and speeds development of the mobile, embedded and consumer devices that will drive the next product cycle."

"OEMs are looking for embedded solutions that will enable them to deliver high-performing, feature-rich Windows CE-based consumer devices," said Keith White, senior director of marketing for the Embedded and Appliance Platforms Group at Microsoft. "Zayante's 1394 software stack will enable them to deliver these Windows Powered connected devices with the advanced capabilities their customers are demanding."

"Zayante's support of Windows CE represents a milestone for 1394 technology in consumer electronics. Their Zbox and TNF products go a long way to ease the development challenges faced by the manufacturers of products such as digital televisions, set-top boxes, and personal video recorders," said Cecelia Smith, Product Marketing Manager for Consumer Electronics Connectivity Solutions at Texas Instruments. "TI is proud to provide the silicon that helps enable such innovation."

The Zayante TNF Zbox is an integrated hardware/software development platform for 1394 embedded applications featuring Zayante's TNF control and protocol stack. It is supplied complete with a range of demonstration applications, including an IEEE 1394 to Ethernet router, an AV/C disk with personal video recorder enhancements, AV/C tape recorder, SBP-2 disk and other capabilities.

About Zayante

Zayante is the only company that provides complete 1394 hardware and software solutions, including silicon cores, software tools, and system designs. Based in Scotts Valley, Calif., the company was founded in 1996 by the visionaries and primary developers of 1394 technology from Apple Computer Inc.. For more information, please visit the company's web site at www.zayante.com, or call Zayante at 831/461-4900.

Note to Editors: TNF Zbox is a trademark of Zayante Corp.