Thomson Unveils Its New Cost-Effective Decoding Chip for Set-Top Boxes at IBC 2007

Business Wire, August 16, 2007

BURBANK, Calif. & PARIS -- Thomson (Euronext 18453) (NYSE:TMS) today announced it will present the Thomson 4221 integrated circuit (IC) solution for MPEG2 standard definition (SD) applications at IBC 2007 (Thomson stand 1. 411). Equipped with five outputs and advanced security features, the IC is optimized for Personal Video Recording (PVR) and Digital Video Recording (DVR) applications including satellite, IP and cable set-top boxes.

"Thomson is dedicated to delivering new, innovative solutions that give customers an edge in digital content delivery," said Marc Crosnier, worldwide sales manager for the Thomson Silicon Components group. "This new chip is a cost-effective but fully customizable IC that delivers a complete solution to a wider market."

Specifically designed for set-top box manufacturers, OEMs and ODMs, the user interface is designed specially for use with PVR and DVR applications. Thomson offers a wide range of cost-effective, customizable reference boards and a digital video broadcasting software stack that incorporates versatile applications and drivers.

The Thomson 4221 enables customers to record digital video content on a hard disk drive with optimal video and audio quality. The IC offers dual USB 2.0 and Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) interfaces, providing flexible connection options to customers.

The high-speed Ethernet interface enables delivery of multimedia content across the home network to local or shared storage devices.

For more information on Thomson's latest IC developments and products, please visit: http://silicon.thomson.net

About Thomson -- Leader in Digital Video Technologies

Thomson (Euronext Paris: 18453) (NYSE:TMS) provides technology, services, and systems and equipment to help its Media & Entertainment clients -- content creators, content distributors, and users of its technology -- realize their business goals and optimize their performance in a rapidly-changing technology environment. The Group is the preferred partner to the Media & Entertainment Industries through its Technicolor, Grass Valley, RCA, and Thomson brands. For more information: http://www.thomson.net

About Thomson's Technology Division

Thomson's Technology division develops and supplies advanced products, services and technologies to entertainment and media companies. One of three divisions of Thomson, S.A., the Technology division capitalizes on its worldwide research organization to feed its 3 other businesses: Intellectual Property & Licensing, managing a portfolio of more than 50,000 patents; Thomson Silicon Solutions, developing advanced integrated circuits; and Software & Technology Solutions, a leading developer and provider of innovative Digital Security and Technology Solutions.