Mercedes-Benz Adopts MOST Network Technology in Latest M-Class SUV

FYI: Mercedes-Benz Buyer's Guide

HAUPPAUGE, NY--September 12, 2011: SMSC , a leading semiconductor company enabling content rich connectivity systems, today announced that the Media Oriented Systems Transport (MOST^®) networking technology, the accepted standard for high bandwidth infotainment networking in the car, has been selected as the backbone of the infotainment system for Daimler's new Mercedes-Benz M-Class model. Its proliferation, which started with the previous M-Class, is now entering the second round.

“Approximately 108 cars worldwide have been equipped with MOST technology so far. Daimler has relied on MOST technology since 2002 due to its performance, high quality and robustness.”

Daimler offers an entire set of infotainment components for the new M-Class. Dominating the centre of the instrument panel is the large color screen which is used for infotainment, navigation and communication. MOST technology is used for connecting a broad range of infotainment devices in this premium SUV.

"We are pleased to continue to be selected by Daimler as the in-vehicle networking system of choice for this prestigious Mercedes-Benz model," stated Dr. Christian Thiel, Vice President and General Manager of SMSC's Automotive Information Systems group. "Approximately 108 cars worldwide have been equipped with MOST technology so far. Daimler has relied on MOST technology since 2002 due to its performance, high quality and robustness."

MOST multimedia networking technology enables the networking of feature-rich infotainment systems in automobiles by providing the means to distribute multimedia entertainment functions among the various control devices around the car. For example, a CD- or DVD changer, radio, GPS-navigation, mobile telephone and digital media-interfaces can supply signals to this efficient ring network. The signals are sent digitally and static-free to the amplifier and monitors.

About SMSC's Automotive Product Line

SMSC's Automotive Information Systems is a supplier of TrueAuto infotainment and information semiconductor solutions to major auto-brands, including Audi, BMW, Hyundai, Jaguar, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Toyota, Volkswagen and Volvo. SMSC is a founding member of the MOST Cooperation, a cooperative of automakers, automotive systems architects and manufacturers and key components suppliers working to extend and refine the MOST^® standard for the evolving requirements of automotive multimedia networking. Additional information is available at SMSC AIS.

About SMSC

SMSC is a leading developer of Smart Mixed-Signal Connectivity solutions. SMSC employs a unique systems level approach that incorporates a broad set of technologies and intellectual property to deliver differentiating products to its customers. The company is focused on delivering connectivity solutions that enable the proliferation of data in personal computers, automobiles, portable consumer devices and other applications. SMSC's feature-rich products drive a number of industry standards and include USB, MOST^® automotive networking, Kleer^® and JukeBlox^® wireless audio, embedded system control and analog solutions, including thermal management and RightTouch^® capacitive sensing. SMSC is headquartered in New York and has offices and research facilities in North America, Asia, Europe and India.