Freescale Launches "Embedded Voice" VoIP Reference Platform
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Collaboration with Arcturus Networks provides "out-of-the-box" M53281 and M53721 ColdFire® solutions for industrial VoIP
AUSTIN, Texas - Oct. 1, 2007 - Freescale has introduced an embedded voice-over-IP (VoIP) reference platform solution designed to speed time to market for industrial embedded voice applications using VoIP technology. Developed in collaboration with Arcturus Networks Inc., the solution is available as an evaluation and development kit, a ready-to-use module, or a microcontroller (MCU) and software combination for integration into a customer's hardware and software product.
Freescale's M53281KIT is a VoIP reference platform, evaluation and development kit featuring a host board, VoIP module based on the ColdFire® MCF53281 MCU family, VoIP voice processing software and a Middleware stack from Arcturus. The comprehensive hardware and software solution is ideal for residential, industrial and commercial embedded voice using VoIP applications, such as intercom systems used in residential, commercial and industrial settings.
"As VoIP technology has matured and entered the mainstream of the communications market, system developers look for highly integrated, market-ready solutions optimized for performance and cost effectiveness," said Jeff Bock, global product marketing manager of Freescale's Consumer and Industrial Microcontroller Division. "The VoIP reference platform co-developed by Freescale and Arcturus is designed to enable 'out-of-the-box' productivity for developing innovative embedded-voice applications."
The VoIP reference platform demonstrates how the control, performance and connectivity capabilities of Freescale's 32-bit MCF53281 and MCF53721 ColdFire MCUs enable embedded designers to add voice functionality to a wide range of applications. The ColdFire platform also can be used to replace existing analog intercom systems while providing improved quality and many additional features. These may include the choice of call routing, various wired and wireless network options, centralized voice-based customer support in multiple languages and access to the public telephone network.
Incorporating highly optimized management and media middleware from Arcturus, the VoIP reference platform supports a wide range of system configurations, form factors, performance/cost points and target applications in the industrial and consumer markets. The platform's key features include media signaling that is interoperability certified with leading infrastructure equipment as well as open source PBX implementations, a comprehensive device management system with Web UI, SSL based remote management and simple APIs for application integration. The kit also provides a comprehensive open source uClinux BSP.
Voice processing software developed by Encore Software supports popular voice compression codecs, such as G.711, G729ab, G723 and G.726, and other audio-related functions including echo cancellation, gain control and call progress tones.
"The combination of Freescale's highly integrated ColdFire MCUs, our board design capabilities and middleware software has resulted in a VoIP reference platform that allows product developers to integrate VoIP without needing to become media, signaling or endpoint management experts," said Michael Durrant, vice president engineering, at Arcturus Networks Inc. "The comprehensive reference platform includes all system components and software needed to build industrial and residential VoIP systems, quickly, easily and at cost-effective price points."
About the MCF53281 and MCF53721 MCUs
Featuring an integrated Enhanced Multiply Accumulate control unit, the MCF53281 and MCF53721 MCUs provide cost-effective solutions for processing packet-based audio, controlling embedded applications and managing network connections. This high level of on-chip integration helps reduce system cost and complexity, resulting in a simplified bill of materials. The MCF53281 includes an integrated SVGA LCD controller for a graphics based user interface. Both the MCF53281 and MCF53721 support a wide range of connectivity including 10/100 Ethernet, CAN, USBs, UARTs, SPI and I2C.
M53281KIT VoIP kit summary
VoIP Module Host board
M53281MOD VoIP module
LCD interface daughter card
Audio headset
P&E BDM wiggler
GNU tools
Management and media middleware
µClinux BSP
Out-of-the box VoIP demonstration capabilities
Licenses for kit use
Documentation
Power supply
M53281 VoIP module summary
MCF53281CVM240 MCU
32 MB SDRAM
16 MB NOR Flash
10/100 Ethernet
CAN transceiver
SVGA LCD
Access to various peripherals and I/O
Analog audio subsystem with codec/amplifier
Management and media middleware (preinstalled)
Licenses for VoIP software use
Pricing and availability
The M53281KIT VoIP reference platform is available for a suggested resale price of $749. The M53281MOD VoIP module is available for a suggested resale price of $99 in 1K quantities. Suggested resale pricing in 10K quantities for the MCF53281CVM240 and MCF53721CVM240 ColdFire MCUs starts at $12.94. (All prices USD.)
For more information about the M53281KIT VoIP reference platform including documentation, design resources and source code, visit freescale.com/files/pr/m53281kit.html.
About Arcturus Networks Inc.
Arcturus is a recognized leader in embedded solutions for communication and industrial applications. The company creates solutions that empower product developers by supplying modular hardware platforms with embedded middleware and open-source OS BSPs. Arcturus middleware products are optimized systems for the creation of feature-rich, fully managed, networking and media end-point devices. The middleware is certified interoperable with leading infrastructure equipment and has achieved award recognition from industry analysts. Visit www.ArcturusNetworks.com.
About Encore Software Ltd.
Encore Software is a pioneer in developing technological solutions in DSP-based modems, speech coders, VoIP protocol stacks and system design services in the embedded systems area. These products and services are the critical building blocks for OEM products that address the Internet, telecommunication and consumer electronics industries. Visit www.ncoretech.com.
About Freescale Semiconductor
Freescale Semiconductor is a global leader in the design and manufacture of embedded semiconductors for the automotive, consumer, industrial, networking and wireless markets. The privately held company is based in Austin, Texas, and has design, research and development, manufacturing or sales operations in more than 30 countries. Freescale is one of the world's largest semiconductor companies with 2006 sales of $6.4 billion (USD). www.freescale.com
Media Contacts:
Americas
Dale Weisman
Freescale Semiconductor
(512) 895-2795
dale.weisman@freescale.com
Emilie Harris
Lois Paul & Partners
(512) 638-5321
emilie_harris@lpp.com
