H.264 reference design from CAST implemented on Altera/Xilinx FPGAs

CAST Inc has released the H264-REF H.264 video encoding reference design system. It is said to combine multiple hardware functions and essential software in a pre-integrated, well-documented package.

The System is available now and runs on both Altera's Stratix IV GX FPGA Development Kit and the V5 TAI Logic Module Virtual FPGA Prototyping System from S2C which uses Xilinx' Virtex-5 device.

This reference design system uses the H264-E Encoder Core developed by Alma Technologies. This core produces video at up to 1080p resolution and 30 frames per second. It uses Baseline Profile architecture and processes video with less latency and fewer hardware resources than many competing cores.

The H264-REF System includes a PCI Express Endpoint Controller Core, a H.264 Multimedia Interface Core, and an appropriate DDR Memory Controller Core. Its software also provides a GUI that can control H.264 encoding parameters such as the target quality level or a constant bit rate requirement. The GUI also helps to manage workflow details like input and output clip specifications. The system includes additional drivers and other software to make it ready to run as delivered.

"The H264-REF System satisfies two customer needs we've frequently seen," said Bill Finch, senior vice president. "Many products require H.264 video encoding, but designers have little or no experience with this complex compression technology, and need an easy platform for learning and experimentation. Moreover, any designer considering H.264 IP should evaluate the actual core with multiple samples of their own video material, in an environment where they can replicate the conditions anticipated for their system."

For more information visit: www.cast-inc.com

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