The networking gap between high-definition video on the PC to digital media players and entertainment systems connected to an HDTV is shrinking.

Communications processor and software solutions provider Ubicom, Inc., has developed a wireless High Definition Media Bridge reference design that delivers reliable and easy-to-use HD video distribution in the home, particularly with devices such as Media Center Edition extenders such as Xbox 360, says Ubicom. The design combines Microsoft Windows Rally connectivity technologies with Ubicom’s StreamEngine technology to identify and prioritize high-bandwidth, time-sensitive video traffic over a wireless home network, the company says.

The reference design solves a number of issues related to streaming high definition media over a wireless network:

• Draft 802.11n wireless technology, that preferentially operates at 5GHz, avoids interference from neighboring wireless networks and delivers sufficient bandwidth for multiple MPEG-2-encoded HD video streams.
• The device’s automatic self-configuration allows users to simply add high-definition media bridges to an existing wireless network or use two or more devices to create a dedicated media network depending on their needs.
• Wireless Intelligent Stream Handling (WISH) automatically and continuously looks for media streams on the wireless link and ensures that they are transmitted at the appropriate priority.
• Wi-Fi Protected Setup certification ensures simple configuration of a secure wireless network.

Ubicom’s High Definition Media Bridge software and hardware reference design is available now. Visit www.ubicom.com for more information.

Arlen Schweiger - Managing editor of Electronic House Magazine

Arlen contributes product news items to electronichouse.com along with his role on the print publication. Got a tip? Send it along!