Broadcom Corp. Samples DOCSIS Cable Modem Chip

Electronic News, Sept 25, 2000

BROADCOM CORP. launched its latest effort to jumpstart the voice-enabled cable modem and home networking market today by introducing its BCM3352 single-chip data-over-cable service interface specification (DOCSIS) cable modem chip that the company said will enable broadband through a user's cable connection.

The chip integrates Irvine, Calif.-based Broadcom's 32Mbit/sec. iLine2 HomePNA technology, a 200 MIPS voice-over-Internet Protocol (VoIP) DSP, a four-channel IP-optimized voice CODEC and IP-security technology into a single chip, the company said last week. "This breakthrough single-chip solution represents a significant step in the creation of the residential broadband gateway," said Henry T. Nicholas III, Broadcom president and chief executive officer, in a statement. "Our chip now opens the way for the deployment of low-cost broadband IP gateways, permanently attached to the sides of homes, that deliver four lines of primary-line digital telephone, IP video, home networking, and always-on cable modem I nternet services over cable systems and home phone lines," he said. The HomePNA 2.0 technology eliminates wiring for additional telephone lines and high-speed data connections by providing a broadband connection over existing phone lines and jacks. Now sampling, the chip is priced at $59 each in quantities of 100,000 and is offered in a 484-pin plastic BGA package. Broadcom did not say when it plans volume production.