Hercules announced today a commercial collaboration with Analog Devices, Inc., developers of SoundMAX® with SPX , to deliver a new generation of compelling audio solutions based on SoundMAX and CNR (Communications Network Riser) card technologies. This commercial collaboration delivers a flexible, low-cost solution for Athlon, Pentium® III and Pentium 4 computer motherboards equipped with CNR.
This collaboration will enable PC OEMs and system integrators to benefit from a wide range of Hercules' feature-rich audio cards. For example, with the SoundMAX integrated codec, circuit and software audio system exploiting the CNR slot, audio is now processed by the powerful Intel® Pentium III and Pentium 4 processors. In addition, by integrating Hercules' CNR audio cards, system builders are now able to add great value to their PCs, such as high-quality multi-channel sound from 2- to 5.1-outputs in a very cost-effective way. System builders are also able to seamlessly customize offerings by selecting the appropriate Hercules' audio card to complete their PCs.
Hercules has established a strong reputation as a PC peripheral designer and manufacturer worldwide which, when combined with SoundMAX, provides these audio CNR cards with a broad distribution channel.
"In the light of our dedication to providing low-cost winning audio solutions to the OEM market, Analog Devices is a great match - and they've proven their know-how in the audio processing field yet again with SoundMAX," said Claude Guillemot, President of Hercules Technologies. "The results of this collaboration is a complete new line of Hercules CNR audio cards that will deliver an impressive audio-intensive experience in both gaming and DVD applications."
"We are very excited to collaborate with Hercules, which is world-renowned for its strong brand and expertise in developing innovative and award-winning PC products. Hercules carries a world-class quality production reputation coupled with outstanding service and support," stated John Croteau, Product Line Director, Integrated Audio Group at Analog Devices. "The key to this collaboration is the opportunity for both companies to expand awareness and increase market share in the OEM and systems integrator market."
Hercules SC-score 6 digital
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Hercules SC-Riser 6
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Hercules SC-Riser 6 Digital
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Hercules' new range of OEM CNR audio cards, featuring 2 to 5.1-channel output capabilities, will be available mid-June 2001.
About Hercules
Founded in the United States in 1982, Hercules developed the industry's first high-resolution graphics boards for PCs. Having set the monochrome graphics standard, Hercules then proceeded to pioneer advances in color graphics solutions. Over the years, Hercules has constantly sought to evolve, providing innovative lines of graphics, video, and - more recently - audio products, geared principally towards the international gaming community. Hercules has been a division of the Guillemot Corporation group since 1999.
Guillemot Corporation designs and manufactures a complete range of PC hardware products and PC and gaming console accessories. With an active presence in 17 countries, the group currently distributes its products in a total of 45 countries. Guillemot Corporation is listed on the Paris Stock exchange, Sicovam code 6672. For further information, please visit our web site.
SoundMAX is a registered trademark and SPX is a trademark of Analog Devices, Inc. All other product and company names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.