I/O chip from ST connects to Intel's Tunnel Creek used in auto-infotainment apps

STMicroelectronics has released an I/O Hub (IOH) designed to work with Intel Atom processor E6xx series in automotive In-Vehicle Infotainment (IVI) systems. This I/O Hub is called ConneXt and connects to the Intel Atom processor E6xx series (formerly codenamed Tunnel Creek) using the PCI Express (PCIe) interconnection technology.

"A key trend in the automotive industry is to offer drivers and passengers access to the same level of information and entertainment in the car as they enjoy at home," said Fabio Marchio, General Manager of the Automotive Infotainment Division, Automotive Product Group, STMicroelectronics. "In-car networking technologies that handle the distribution of multimedia, data and control information are now well-established and the next step is to offer a cost-effective platform that allows the same architecture to be used across a range of car models and generations."

The ConnecXt IOH enables the use of open, off-the shelf software. It provides rich I/O connectivity, including Ethernet AVB (Audio Video Bridging), CAN (Controller Area Network) and MOST (Media Oriented Systems Transport) and general purpose I/Os such as SATA (Serial Advanced Technology Attachment) and USB On-the-Go for broader applications.

"The Intel Atom processor E6xx series is more integrated and provides an open interface that allows it to be easily customized for in-vehicle infotainment solutions," said Jonathan Luse, director of marketing for the Intel Low Power Embedded Products Division. "Pairing it with an IOH such as STMicroelectronics' ConneXt allows our automotive customers to quickly develop a solid hardware platform to add compelling in-vehicle applications and services."

The ConneXt chip was designed by ST in consultation with Intel to ensure that the IOH would be optimally matched to the Intel Atom processor E6xx series.

Price: Approximately US$7.50

Availability: Samples in May 2011