1997-10-21 , E/IC-726/650

Optimised TwoChipHCG* Plus architecture enables designers to develop handheld personal computers based on newest High-Performance Operating System

Philips Semiconductors' Handheld Computing Group today announced its support for the new Microsoft Windows CE 2.0 platform, the second-generation operating system developed for the handheld computing industry. Philips' TwoChipHCG* Plus architecture, the industry's most integrated high-performance, low-power solution targeted specifically for handheld personal computers (H/PCs), will enable end users to fully access the power of the new OS platform.

"Microsoft WinCE 2.0, like the first generation, is a landmark operating system that will fuel the proliferation of H/PCs and change the way people view the market. Philips recognised this and developed its TwoChipHCG* Plus to leverage the power of the new OS," said Stefan Braken-Guelke, general manager of Philips' Handheld Computing Group. "Many designers of H/PC chipsets claim high-performance processor speeds, but the TwoChipHCG* Plus is specifically optimised for enhanced WinCE performance and is arguably the most complete communications and computational solution for portable devices."

Microsoft Windows CE 2.0 offers high-level functionality via a smaller ROM/RAM footprint empowering users with better communications, 16-bit colour support, wave-in and wave-out audio, bit-map printing and GUI upgrades such as cascading menus and top-most windows.

"We developed the WinCE platform to give users of handheld instruments the power and feel of a desktop PC. The 2.0 version takes this a step further, offering colour and processing capabilities that will truly empower end users with traditional PC functionality," said Harel Kodesh, general manager of the consumer appliance group at Microsoft Corporation. "Philips' TwoChipHCG* Plus is an ideal H/PC architecture that integrates high-performance capabilities with low-power consumption. These two attributes enable users on the go to access the power of the WinCE 2.0 operating system without sacrificing critical battery life."

TwoChipHCG* Plus
The TwoChipHCG* Plus consists of Philips'  PR31700,  UCB1200 and V.34bis softmodem, as well as Windows CE device drivers. The enhancements to the chipset offer end users improved performance (72 Mips), colour LCD support, and integrated touch, phone and audio functions for handheld computers.

The softmodem greatly increases communication capabilities through faster modem speeds, up to 33.6 Kbps. End users receive increased bandwidth for their handheld computers without sacrificing the colour quality of the user interface.

Cost for the chipset, combined with the software fax/modem, is US$39 in 100,000- unit quantities. Customers should contact their local Philips Semiconductors sales office or distributor for further information on pricing and availability.

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.