The demonstration, to be conducted by NEC Electronics, shows simultaneous audio and video streaming between multiple consumer electronics devices and computers connected by POF and, for some connections, over copper. During the streaming, Internet Protocol packets and digital video data are transported with IP-over-1394 and AV/C protocols. The demonstration shows the use of various physical media, along with both the real-time and asynchronous capabilities of the 1394 multimedia technology, according to Patrick Yu of NEC Electronics, a member of the 1394 Trade Association Board of Directors.

"Our 1394-over-optical fiber demonstrations are exciting and convincing evidence that 1394 is ideal for automotive applications," states Max Bassler of Molex, the vice chairman of the 1394 Trade Association. "NEC and other companies are dedicating the resources and engineering expertise to link consumer and computer devices together over POF using 1394 running at 200 Megabits per second now, and we expect to move to 400 Megabits per second versions in 2001."

Last month, the 1394 Trade Association established a joint Automotive Working Group with the IDB Forum that will prepare 1394 for use in the automotive environment, by defining requirements to support passenger compartment operations and automobile-grade POF physical layer implementation. The joint AWG has scheduled a meeting for Feb. 26 in Kyoto, following the IDB Forum sessions. According to AWG Chair Brad Little of Texas Instruments, Inc. and IDB Forum Executive Director Arlan Stehney, the standard fiber solution is effective for a wide range of auto multimedia, including moving sound and images to seatback videos, monitors, and headsets.

"The 1394 standard has proven itself in copper-based applications, and is now ready for use over optical fiber," explains Little. "The new work group will meet regularly to specify requirements and move quickly to fit 1394 to the automotive world. "The fact that 1394 is available now over plastic fiber is an important development for the industry worldwide," adds Stehney.

Led by international industry leaders, including Sony Corporation, Texas Instruments, Matsushita, Apple Computer, Compaq Computer and many others, the IEEE 1394 standard is now available in a broad range of advanced consumer electronics products, PCs, and peripherals.

The 1394 Trade Association includes more than 175 members worldwide dedicated to the proliferation and advancement of the IEEE 1394 multimedia standard.

Link for more info: www.1394ta.org