1997-10-21 , E/IC-725/650

Technology alliance with Quantum Micro Systems expands TwoChipHCG* applications and increases power of handheld devices

Extending its presence within the handheld arena, Philips Semiconductors' Handheld Computing Group has announced that it will embed its TwoChipHCG* into Quantum Micro Systems' QMS-104 embedded computer board. The new application, a smaller form factor CPU board with an ISA bus, will enable industrial users of portable instruments, such as automotive technicians and inventory controllers, to access more information and run more powerful applications on the Windows CE platform.

"The TwoChipHCG* solution has gained significant momentum within the handheld marketplace, particularly in H/PC applications. This relationship with Quantum Micro extends our technology reach in the embedded segment and will offer users of industrial instruments access to WinCE applications and database information," said Stefan Braken-Guelke, general manager of Philips' Handheld Computing Group.

"We developed the QMS-104 as a smaller, more powerful technology that allows portable devices to be built that offer customers PC functionality to control embedded applications. Windows CE is an excellent platform for a wide range of functions," said Vahe Manugian, president of Quantum Micro Systems. "We selected the TwoChipHCG* architecture because it offered the most integrated solution to meet the high-performance, low-power consumption needs of handheld instrument users."

QMS-104 Embedded Computer Board features
The QMS-104 Embedded Computer Board is a complete CPU board with virtual memory management, cache and an ISA bus connector. It is designed to support Windows CE and Philips' softmodem. It also offers operators a user-friendly, industry-standard GUI, a variety of display options (4-bit monochrome, 480 x 240 as standard), touchscreen and integrated codecs. The CPU board also has 8 Mbytes of flash memory and 4 Mbytes of DRAM, helping it to store the OS, user programs and date files. The embedded TwoChipHCG* processor enables the board to satisfy the needs for expanded processing capabilities while consuming little power.

TwoChipHCG* features
The TwoChipHCG* consists of Philips' PR31500, UCB1100 and V.32bis softmodem, as well as Windows CE device drivers. The chipset offers end users integrated communications via modem, infrared or serial, plus touch, phone and audio functions in a portable device that runs for hours on a couple of AAA size batteries.

Philips' V.32bis softmodem provides the communication capability with fast modem speeds, up to 14.4 Kbps, and increased bandwidth without sacrificing the response time of the user interface.

Philips' Handheld Computing Group also offers a higher-grade architecture package, the recently announced TwoChipHCG* Plus, an improved version of the original chipset. The new architecture includes Philips'  PR31700,  UCB1200 and full V.34 softmodem, up to 33.6 Kbps.

Pricing and Availability
Production quantities will be available in January 1998. Cost for the QMS-104 board with the embedded TwoChipHCG* is US$995 in single quantities. For pricing, ordering and availability contact Quantum Micro Systems at +1 408 245 1800.

Philips Semiconductors, a division of Philips Electronics NV, headquartered in Eindhoven, The Netherlands, is the ninth largest semiconductor supplier in the world and the third largest supplier of discretes in the world. Philips Semiconductors' innovations in digital audio, video, and mobile technology position the company as a leader in the consumer, multimedia and wireless communications markets. Sales offices are located in all major markets around the world and are supported by systems labs.

About Quantum Micro Systems
Quantum Micro Systems provides innovative microprocessor-based hardware and software, products and services for use in handheld devices, test and measurement instruments and embedded applications. The company is located in Sunnyvale, California, USA.