Host Accelerated Modem 56K V.92 Chipset — 536EPXX
Preliminary Datasheet
Intel Confidential
7
1.0
Overview
The software upgradable 536EPXX chipset and reference design from Intel is targeted at modem
and computer manufacturers. This new product is a leap forward in technology, performance and
cost savings. The 536EPXX is a Host Accelerated Modem solution that combines and optimizes
the best features from software and hardware modems. This unique hybrid delivers superior
performance and is a price competive modem.
The 536EPXX uses the host computer’s CPU to replace the modem’s controller without degrading
CPU performance. Since today’s CPUs are well equipped to handle Digital Signal Processing
(DSP), some of the DSP functions are diverted to the CPU. However, to prevent a decrease in CPU
and modem performance, a separate and less expensive DSP chip is used to share the load.
Maximum system and modem performance is maintained by splitting the processing optimally
between the CPU and the DSP.
Unlike software modems, there is no performance penalty because the CPU does not handle all of
the controller and DSP functions. Instead, functions have been strategically optimized for
accelerated performance by either the CPU or the DSP depending on which device can perform
them most efficiently—delivering a price-performance ratio neither software- nor hardware-only
modems can match.
Optimizing CPU usage in this manner eliminates the need for a controller and reduces the size of
the DSP, thereby reducing part count, board size and the amount of silicon used. These cost saving
advantages make the 536EPXX a superior high-performance and feature-rich alternative to
software modems.
With an integrated PCI interface, this ITU-V.92 solution provides a complete set of standard data/
fax/voice and speakerphone features. Effective data receive rates of up to 56K (53.333 kbps FCC
max.) ensures interoperability with major Internet service providers around the world. Chipset
features also include ITU-V.80 videoconferencing. The 536EPXX exceeds Microsoft* PC 00
specifications for Windows* and is TAPI and PCI 2.1 compliant. It satisfies legacy applications
and supports all requirements for PC-based communications, including all standard AT commands
for data, Class 1 fax and IS-101 voice.
1.1
Versatile 56K Platform
With many advanced features already built in, the 536EPXX is a versatile platform for future
development. By using the host computer’s CPU, the 536EPXX can leverage the latest
developments in CPU technology. These advances can be taken advantage of quickly because the
controller code can be modified in a “C” code development environment. Thus, new features and
products can be brought to market faster and less expensively than ever before. And end users can
easily upgrade to the newest communication technology by downloading and installing software
upgrades directly from the modem or computer manufacturer’s internet site.
1.2
Integrated PCI & Mini-PCI Interface
The integrated design supports PCI and Mini-PCI interfaces, and allows the device to transfer data
from the DSP to the host system’s CPU faster than ISA or serial solutions. The integrated interface
also eliminates the ISA bridge chip requirement which helps to reduce part count, board space and
cost.
