Circuit module for use in digital television receiver for receiving digital television broadcasting wave signal

A circuit module for a digital television receiver is formed by multi-layering a decoder LSI including a CPU and a decoder, a decoder layer substrate including a CA interface circuit, a demodulation function layer substrate including a demodulator, and an extension function layer substrate including a communication controller. The demodulation function layer substrate and the extension function layer substrate can be selectively multi-layered to the decoder layer substrate in response to a broadcasting system of a digital television signal or a type of a CA module.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a circuit module for use in, for example, a television set, a personal computer, a mobile terminal apparatus, a recorder apparatus for recording a video signal and an audio signal onto a recording medium such as an optical disc, and the other audio-visual apparatus and, more particularly, relates to a circuit module for a digital television receiver (referred to as a DTV hereinafter) or the like, which receives digital television broadcasting (referred to as a circuit module for DTV receiver hereinafter), and a DTV receiver provided with the same circuit module.

BACKGROUND ART

In recent years, digitization of television broadcasting has been started from Japan, North America, and Europe, and digital television broadcast receivers in conformity with broadcast standards for each nation and region have been sold. For example, terrestrial digital television broadcastings are different in service contents, technological levels at the time of the introduction, and the like according to each nation and region. Therefore, the following three standards are recommended. A digital video broadcasting-terrestrial (referred to as a DVB-T hereinafter) system is adopted in Europe, an advanced television systems committee (referred to as an ATSC hereinafter) system is adopted in America, and an integrated services digital broadcasting-terrestrial (referred to as an ISDB-T hereinafter) system is adopted in Japan. In China, the standardization process based on the DVB-T system adopted in Europe has been progressing.

All of the video and audio compression systems in these standards adopt the system in conformity with the MPEG-2 standard. The transmission system is also in conformity with the MPEG-2_TS signal (transport stream) standard. Therefore, the video and audio decoder in the DTV can make interfaces and circuits to a common architecture throughout all nations and regions. More concretely, compression systems such as the MPEG-2 adopted in the present digital television broadcasting and the H.264 of the ITU that is expected to be adopted in the future basically use an algorithm which detects a moving vector, estimates and encodes a movement. The decoder for decoding a video signal and an audio signal compressed by these systems can be realized by a single hardware, a CPU, and software operative on the CPU. The difference in detailed specifications in each system can be dealt with by changing the software. Accordingly, in a subsequent circuit after a received signal is demodulated into the MPEG-2_TS signal by a demodulator, that is, in a hardware circuit of the decoder, the manufacturers of the circuit module can commercialize a universal decoder throughout the world and increase the effect of mass production.

On the other hand, a circuit, where a television broadcasting wave signal is received via an antenna or the like and then demodulated into the MPEG-2_TS signal, is called a front end circuit. A tuner and a demodulator in the front end circuit are much depend on radio wave policies unique to nation and region, and then, a set of systems different from each other are adopted in respective nations and regions. The front end circuit is composed of the tuner and the demodulator. The tuner receives a broadcast signal, tunes, performs frequency conversion into an intermediate frequency signal, and then, outputs a resulting signal. The demodulator inputs the above intermediate frequency signal, and demodulates the same signal according to a predetermined demodulation system. A demodulation system in the demodulator adopts a quadrature amplitude modulation (referred to as a QAM) system for the DVB-T system and the ISDB-T system, and adopts a vestigial side band (referred to as a VSB) system for the ATSC system.

A conditional access (referred to as a CA hereinafter) unit located between the front end circuit and the decoder integrally operates with an external conditional access circuit module (referred to as a CA module hereinafter). Since the CA unit is related to business, the systems are often different from each other for each business region and market together with an encryption system and interface specifications with the CA module. A CI (referred to as a common interface hereinafter) is adopted in the DVB-T system, a cable card interface is adopted in cable television broadcasting in conformity with the open cable standard in America, and an IC card interface is adopted in the ISDB-T system. Any interface connects the CA module whose terminal specifications are different from each other in the physical specifications and electrical specifications. Therefore, conventionally, the manufacturers of the digital television receiver have commercialized digital television receivers having different configurations in each market by combining a universal decoder throughout the world, a front end circuit module of each nation and region, and a CA unit of each market, and have guaranteed operation.

In addition, the receivers are considered to become more multifaceted in response to spread of the digital television broadcasting. Those having a digital television receiving function are considered to be commercialized in the future for small apparatus such as a mobile terminal apparatus and a recorder apparatus, in a manner similar to that of analog televisions. In addition, also in the other audio-visual apparatus for outputting video and audio, those for treating the MPEG-2_TS signal have been increased. For example, a video reproduction apparatus such as a camera and a DVD player, and a music reproduction apparatus such as a headphone stereo are included. Such apparatus is also expected to become more multifaceted in a manner similar to that of the digital television receiver, and is considered to be reduced in size.

Further, the CI is disclosed in a non-patent document 1, the cable card (formerly called POD) is disclosed in a non-patent document 2, and the IC card interface is disclosed in a non-patent document 3.

On the other hand, efforts for complying with a plurality of markets have been studied by connecting the CA unit (for example, See a patent document 1). The patent document 1 includes a plurality of CA module interfaces capable of connecting each of the CA modules. The plurality of the CA module interfaces are connected in series.

In addition, on the other hand, there have been efforts in which a first circuit chip having an antenna and a second circuit chip having a processing function are laminated or multi-layered to manufacture a front end circuit module with a small area (for example, See a patent document 3).

In this case, there are shown prior art documents related to the present invention as follows:Patent document 1: Japanese patent laid-open publication No. JP-2000-36820-A;Patent document 2: Pamphlet of International application publication No. WO01/047267A1;Patent document 3: Japanese patent laid-open publication No. JP-1998-193848-A;Patent document 4: Japanese patent laid-open publication No. JP-11-288977-A;Patent document 5: Pamphlet of International application publication No. WO01/037546A2;Patent document 6: Japanese patent laid-open publication No. JP-2003-518668-A;Patent document 7: Pamphlet of International application publication No. WO2005/029849A1;Non-patent document 1: EUROPEAN STANDARD EN50221, Common Interface Specification for Conditional Access and other Digital Video Broadcasting Decoder Applications, English Version, Ref. No. EN50221:1996E, February 1997;Non-patent document 2: AMERICAN STANDARD ANSI/SCTE28 2001 (Formerly DVS 295), HOST-POD Interface Standard, Engineering Committee Digital Video Subcommittee, Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers, 2001;Non-patent document 3: IS07816-1 Standard, asynchronous smartcard information, Version 1.00, last revised on Jun. 12, 1995;Non-patent document 4: PC Card Standard, Volume 2, Electrical Specification, PCMCIA/JEITA, 2001; andNon-patent document 5: SCTE40 2001 (Formerly DVS 313), Digital Cable Network Interface Standard, Engineering Committee Digital Video Subcommittee, Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers, 2001.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

However, in conditions as described above, when a plurality of functions are added to an apparatus such as the digital television receiver to extend the functions, a printed circuit board (referred to as a board or a substrate hereinafter) mounted with an LSI for extending function is further added in the apparatus, and then, there is such a problem as increase in an area occupied by a function extension substrate and a substrate total area. In addition, there has been no concept which selects an adding function by selecting a laminating substrate and replacing the same substrate.

Therefore, in an example of the digital television receiver, it is difficult to miniaturize the same into a semiconductor chip size or an LSI package size by integrating the decoder, the tuner, the demodulator, and the function extending LSI. Generally speaking, the manufacturers manufacture the digital television receiver by mounting the decoder, the tuner, and the demodulator on a different substrate. Since the reduction in each substrate area in the digital television receiver reaches the limit, it is difficult to further reduction in size of the whole digital television receiver.

In addition, the decoder and the demodulator are mounted on a substrate different from that mounted with the function extending LSI, and wiring is made between the substrates by wire and cable. Then the wiring among the decoder and the demodulator, and the function extending LSI become long, and accordingly, the electrical characteristics of the wiring deteriorate. Consequently, the transmission delay time of the electrical signal cannot be shortened; and therefore, it is difficult to achieve an improvement in performance by transmitting a more high-speed signal. In addition, the wiring among the decoder, the demodulator, and the function extending LSI, which transmit high-speed electrical signals, become long, and then, there arise such problems as the false operation due to waveform distortion generated by an electrical signal reflection or the like, the interference on the tuner due to radiation noise, and the like.

Further, the demodulators are different from each other for each nation and region, and the physical specifications and the electrical specifications of the CA modules are different from each other for each market. Therefore, the manufacturers of the digital television receivers have commercialized the digital television receivers having different configurations for respective nations, regions, and markets by combining the universal decoder all over the world, the demodulator for each nation or region, and the CA module interface for each market. Then, the design of the boards mounted with the decoder, the demodulator, and the CA module interface, and the operation guarantee take trouble and cost at every commercialization, and then, there has been such a problem that any cost reduction of products cannot be achieved. More particularly, there has been such a problem that the operation including the CA module often needs authentication by a certification authority at each market, the authentication at each commercialization takes a trouble, and then, production cost increases. Further, the manufacturers of the digital television receivers have commercialized the digital television receivers from low-end to high-end in each nation and region by combining the LSI for extending function such as network connection in addition to the universal decoder all over the world, the demodulator for each nation and region, and the CA module interface for each market. Therefore, the design of the boards mounted with the decoder, the demodulator, the CA module interface, and the LSI for extending the function, and the operation guarantee take trouble and cost at every commercialization. Then there has been such a problem that any cost reduction of products cannot be achieved.

In addition, in the configuration disclosed in the patent document 1, each of the CA module interfaces is required to be provided. Therefore, in the case of considering realization of a common circuit module in each market including the CA module, there arises a cost demerit due to increase in the cost of an interface circuit and a socket. Accordingly, there arises such a problem that the cost reduction becomes small which should have been made due to mass production effect by using a common architecture.

In addition, the number of connecting terminals with the CA module increases in response to the number of interfaces to be provided. As for the number of terminals, for example, a CI card and a cable card each have 68 connecting terminals, and at least 136 connecting terminals are required for only two types of the CA module interfaces. Therefore, in the case of considering the realization of the common circuit module in each market including the CA module, there arises a cost demerit in reducing in size due to increase in the number of connecting terminals with the interface circuit. Accordingly, there arises such a problem that the number of terminals becomes a bottleneck upon making into a circuit module and reducing in size.

More particularly, when a realized configuration of the circuit module is micro-miniaturized as being made into a semiconductor chip and formed into a printed circuit board or substrate with a multi-layer structure, the proportion of an area occupied by the connecting terminals in an area of the semiconductor chips and the printed circuit board extremely increases. This is because there is a limit because reduction in size of the connecting terminals is influenced by a pitch and a connecting method of wiring connected to the terminals. Therefore, there arises such a problem that any reduction in size cannot be achieved because there is such a case that the area of the semiconductor chips and the printed circuit board are determined by the area of the connecting terminals when the number of connecting terminals increases.

In addition, in the configuration disclosed in the patent document 3, each single piece of the first circuit chip and the second circuit chip is not independent as a function circuit module. Then the first circuit chip and the second circuit chip do not exhibit any function at all unless connected. Therefore, even if a different third circuit chip is provided, a front end having a different function cannot be configured by replacing the third circuit chip with the first circuit chip or the second circuit chip. In addition, the operation cannot be guaranteed by operating the first circuit chip and the second circuit chip as a single piece. Further, the operation cannot be confirmed unless the first circuit chip and the second circuit chip are connected. Therefore, the defects of the single piece of the circuit chip cannot be also confirmed unless connected, and it is difficult to achieve improvement in yield. Further, there is no means to identify multi-layered circuit chips, and a control unit cannot recognize a type of the circuit chip. Then, the state of the circuit chip cannot be appropriately changed in response to the types of the multi-layered circuit chip.

An object of the present invention is to solve the foregoing problems, and to provide a circuit module capable of directly connecting a television broadcasting wave signal for each nation and region and a CA module for each market, capable of connecting to each display device such as a liquid crystal display and a plasma display, and capable of simply and inexpensively manufacturing in a small size to a semiconductor chip size or an LSI package size as compared with the prior arts; and to provide an inexpensive, small digital television receiver with higher performance.

Means for Solving Problem

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a circuit module for decoding a content data signal including a content signal into the content signal, and outputting the content signal. The circuit module includes at least one first substrate, a second substrate, and a third substrate. At least one first substrate includes a first circuit for outputting the content data signal, and the second substrate includes a second circuit for decoding the content data signal outputted from the first circuit, into the content signal, and outputting the content signal. The third substrate includes a third circuit for generating a clock signal which is used in the second circuit. The circuit module has a multi-layered structure multi-layered in a thickness direction of the respective substrates so that the respective substrates substantially become parallel to each other. The circuit module further includes first and second connecting means. The first connecting means is formed in common between respective substrates from the first substrate to the second substrate, and the first connecting means is electrically connecting between respective circuits of the first substrate and the second substrate, and transmits the content data signal. The second connecting means is formed in common between respective substrates from the third substrate to the second substrate, and the second connecting means electrically connecting between respective circuits of the third substrate and the second substrate, and transmits the clock signal.

In the above-mentioned circuit module, the first connecting means is formed on an outer side than a formation position of the each circuit in the each substrate.

In addition, in the above-mentioned circuit module, the second connecting means is formed on an inner side than a formation position of the first connecting means.

Further, in the above-mentioned circuit module, the first connecting means includes a plurality of connecting terminals. At least one substrate of the respective substrates further includes third connecting means formed on an inner side than a formation position of a connecting terminal which is formed on an outermost side of the respective connecting terminals of the first connecting means, the third connecting means transmitting and receiving a signal to and from an external substrate.

In this case, the plurality of connecting terminals of the first connecting means are formed so that each pair of mutually neighboring connecting terminals thereof is separated by a predetermined first interval. The third connecting means includes a plurality of connecting terminals, and the plurality of connecting terminals of the third connecting means are formed so that each pair of mutually neighboring connecting terminals thereof is separated by a predetermined second interval which is larger than the first interval.

Furthermore, in the above-mentioned circuit module, the respective connecting terminals of the first and second connecting means includes a first connecting terminal for transmitting an analog signal, and a second connecting terminal for transmitting a digital signal. The first and second connecting terminals are formed so as to be separated with each other by a predetermined third interval.

In this case, the first and second connecting terminals are formed so as to be separated with a grounding conductor terminal sandwiched therebetween.

In the above-mentioned circuit module, the second substrate further includes a control circuit for controlling decode processing of the second circuit. The circuit module further includes fourth connecting means formed in common between respective substrates from the first substrate to the second substrate, the fourth connecting means transmitting a type-identifying data signal representing a system of the content data signal outputted from the first circuit. The control circuit detects a system of the digital data signal on the basis of the type-identifying data signal inputted via the fourth connecting means from the first circuit, and controls decode processing of the second circuit on the basis of the detected system.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a circuit module for use in a DTV. The circuit module is configured such that first and second substrates are integrally configured by multi-layering sad first and second substrates in a thickness direction so as to be substantially parallel to each other. The first substrate includes a demodulation circuit for demodulating an intermediate frequency signal into a demodulated signal, and outputting the demodulated signal. The intermediate frequency signal is obtained by converting one type of digital television broadcasting wave signal selected among digital television broadcasting wave signals of a plurality type of broadcasting systems different from each other. The second substrate includes a decoding circuit, a control circuit, and sixth connecting means. The decoding circuit decodes the demodulated signal into a television signal including a video signal and an audio signal, and outputting the television signal. The control circuit controls an operation of the circuit module for use in the DTV receiver. The sixth connecting means is connected to an external terminal, and the sixth connecting means transmits and receiving an external signal. The circuit module further includes first and second connecting means. The first connecting means is formed in common between respective substrates from the first substrate to the second substrate, and the first connecting means is electrically connecting between respective circuits of the first substrate and the second substrate, and transmits the intermediate frequency signal. The second connecting means is formed in common between respective substrates from the first substrate to the second substrate, and the second connecting means is electrically connecting between respective circuits of the first substrate and the second substrate, and transmit the demodulated signal.

In the above-mentioned circuit module for use in the DTV, the circuit module further includes a third substrate including a generating circuit for generating a clock signal for use in decoding processing of the decoding circuit. The circuit module is configured such that the first, second and third substrates are integrally configured by multi-layering the first, second and third substrates in the thickness direction so as to be substantially parallel to each other. The circuit module includes third connecting means formed in common between respective substrates from the third substrate to the second substrate, the third connecting means electrically connecting between respective circuits of the third substrate and the second substrate, and transmitting the clock signal.

In the above-mentioned circuit module for use in the DTV, the third substrate further includes a tuner circuit for converting one type of digital television broadcasting wave signal into an intermediate frequency signal and outputting the intermediate frequency signal, and the one type of digital television broadcasting wave signal is selected among a plurality type of broadcasting systems different from each other. The first connecting means is formed in common between respective substrates from the first substrate to the third substrate, and the first connecting means is electrically connecting between respective circuits of the first substrate and the third substrate, and transmits the intermediate frequency signal. The circuit module further includes fourth connecting means formed in common between respective substrates from the second substrate to the third substrate, and the fourth connecting means is electrically connecting between respective circuits of the second substrate and the third substrate, and transmits the digital television broadcasting wave signal.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a circuit module for use in a DTV. The circuit module is configured such that first and second substrates are integrally configured by multi-layering the first and second substrates in a thickness direction so as to be substantially parallel to each other. The first substrate includes a tuner circuit and demodulation circuit. The tuner circuit converts one type of digital television broadcasting wave signal into an intermediate frequency signal, and outputs the intermediate frequency signal, and the one type of digital television broadcasting wave signal is selected among a plurality type of broadcasting systems different from each other. The demodulation circuit demodulates the intermediate frequency signal to a demodulated signal, and for outputting the demodulated signal. The second substrate includes a decoding substrate, a control circuit, and a sixth connecting means. The decoding circuit decodes the demodulated signal to a television signal including a video signal and an audio signal, and outputs the television signal. The control circuit controls an operation of the circuit module. The sixth connecting means is connected to an external terminal, and the sixth connecting means transmits and receives an external signal. The circuit module further includes second and fourth connecting means. The second connecting means is formed in common between respective substrates from the first substrate to the second substrate, and the second connecting means is electrically connecting between respective circuits of the first substrate and the second substrate, and transmits the demodulated signal. The fourth connecting means is formed in common between respective substrates from the first substrate to the second substrate, and the fourth connecting means is electrically connecting between respective circuits of the first substrate and the second substrate, and transmits the digital television broadcasting wave signal.

In the above-mentioned circuit module for use in the DTV, the first substrate includes a generating circuit for generating a clock signal for use in the decoding circuit. The circuit module further includes third connecting means formed in common between respective substrates from the first substrate to the second substrate, and the third connecting means electrically connects between respective circuits of the first substrate and the second substrate, and transmits the clock signal.

In the above-mentioned circuit module for use in the DTV, each of the second and fourth connecting means is formed on an outer side than a formation position of the each circuit in the each substrate.

In addition, in the above-mentioned circuit module for use in the DTV, the third connecting means is formed on an inner side than a formation position of the second connecting means and a formation position of the fourth connecting means.

Further, in the above-mentioned circuit module for use in the DTV, the second connecting means includes a plurality of connecting terminals, and the fourth connecting means includes a plurality of connecting terminals. The sixth connecting means is formed on the second substrate on an inner side than a formation position of a connecting terminal which is formed on an outermost side of respective connecting terminals of the second connecting means and the fourth connecting means.

In the above-mentioned circuit module for use in the DTV, plurality of connecting terminals of the sixth connecting means are formed so that each pair of mutually neighboring connecting terminals thereof is separated by a predetermined interval. The respective connecting terminals of the second and fourth connecting means are formed so that each pair of mutually neighboring connecting terminals thereof is formed so as to be separated by an interval smaller than an interval between the respective connecting terminals of the sixth connecting means.

In addition, in the above-mentioned circuit module for use in the DTV, each connecting terminal of the second connecting means and each connecting terminal of the fourth connecting means are formed so as to be separated with each other.

Further, in the above-mentioned circuit module for use in the DTV, each connecting terminal of the second connecting means and each connecting terminal of the fourth connecting means are formed so as to be separated with each other with a grounding conductor terminal sandwiched therebetween.

In the above-mentioned circuit module for use in the DTV, the circuit module further includes seventh connecting means for transmitting a type-identifying data signal, the seventh connecting means being formed in common between respective substrates from the first substrate to the second substrate. The control circuit detects a broadcasting system of the inputted digital television broadcasting wave signal on the basis of the type-identifying data signal inputted via the seventh connecting means, and controls an operation of the decoding circuit on the basis of the detected broadcasting system.

In addition, the broadcasting system includes at least two of a DVB-T system, an ATSC system, and an ISDB-T system.

In addition, in the above-mentioned circuit module for use in the DTV, the circuit module further includes at least one extension function substrate, and eighth connecting means. The at least one extension function substrate is multi-layered on the respective substrates, and the one extension function substrate is selected among a plurality type of extension function substrates having functions different from each other for extending function of the circuit module. The eighth connecting means is formed in common between respective substrates from the second substrate to the extension function substrate, and the eighth connecting means transmits data signals inputted and outputted between a function circuit of the extension function substrate and a circuit of the second substrate.

In this case, the extension function substrate includes at least one of a network extension function substrate for connecting the circuit module to a network and a HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) extension function substrate for extending an HDMI interface.

In the above-mentioned circuit module for use in the DTV, the network extension function substrate includes a communication controller and a network interface, and the HDMI extension function substrate includes an HDMI chip.

In addition, in the above-mentioned circuit module for use in the DTV, the extension function layer substrate includes an external interface for connecting the circuit module to a predetermined external circuit, and the data signal inputted and outputted by the function circuit of the extension function substrate includes a data signal between the external interface and the decoding circuit.

Further, in the above-mentioned circuit module for use in the DTV, the extension function layer substrate includes a cable modem for connecting the circuit module to a head-end of a CATV, and the data signal inputted and outputted by the function circuit of the extension function substrate includes a data signal between the cable modem and the head-end of the CATV.

In the above-mentioned circuit module for use in the DTV, the second substrate further includes an interface circuit connected to one conditional access module via the sixth connecting means, and the one conditional access module is selected among a plurality type of conditional access modules provided in an external substrate and having electrical specifications different from each other. The interface circuit is connected to the demodulation circuit, the decoding circuit, and the control circuit, the interface circuit executing input and output processing of a plurality of signals communicated among the demodulation circuit, the conditional access module, the decoding circuit, and the control circuit. The sixth connecting means includes a connecting terminal formed in common among substrates from the external substrate to the first substrate and the second substrate, and the connecting terminal transmits a stream signal and a data signal inputted and outputted by the conditional access module. The control circuit controls the interface circuit by switching a type of the signal communicated via the sixth connecting means so as to comply with electrical specifications of the connected conditional access module in response to at least one of the broadcasting system of the inputted digital television broadcasting wave signal and the type of the connected conditional access module.

In this case, the conditional access module of a first type is a conditional access module of a common interface. In addition, the conditional access module of a second type is a conditional access module of a cable card, or a conditional access module of a common interface. Further, the circuit module for use in the DTV receiver further includes a different interface circuit for connecting the conditional access module of a third type to the interface means and the control means. In this case, the conditional access module of the third type is a conditional access module of an IC card.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a DTV receiver including the above-mentioned circuit module for use in the DTV receiver, and an external substrate. The external substrate includes a tuner circuit connected to the circuit module via sixth connecting means. The tuner circuit receives a digital television broadcasting wave signal and converts the digital television broadcasting wave signal into an intermediate frequency signal, and outputs a converted intermediate frequency signal to the circuit module via the sixth connecting means.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a DTV receiver including the circuit module for use in the DTV, and an external substrate. The external substrate is connected to the circuit module via sixth connecting means, and the external substrate outputs the digital television broadcasting wave signal to the circuit module via a connector.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a DTV receiver including the circuit module for use in the DTV receiver, and an external substrate. The external substrate is connected to the circuit module via sixth connecting means, and the external substrate includes the conditional access module.

Effects of the Invention

Therefore, according to the circuit module according to the present invention, the function extension can be realized by laminating or multi-layering the extension function layer. In addition, the extending function can be selected by selecting and replacing the laminating extension function layer. Therefore, micro-miniaturization to a semiconductor chip size or an LSI package size, and the circuit module with higher extendibility can be realized.

In addition, according to the circuit module according to the present invention, the physical arrangements and transmitting electrical signal arrangements and types of the interlayer terminal group such as bumps and vias are relatively in common and preliminarily defined in respective types of function layers. Therefore, the bumps and the vias, which have been served as only interlayer connection in the prior art, can be dealt as connector terminals of interface for replacing the layers. Further, since the interlayer is capable of directly connecting with a connecting terminal group such as the bumps and the vias, a simple structure which does not require any intermediate member having wiring such as an interposer in the interlayer can be realized.

In addition, according to the circuit module according to the present invention, all the interlayer wiring can be set to be short within a range of the number of multi-layered sheets of the layer thickness by laminating the same layers. Conventionally, in the case of being configured without any lamination or multi-layering using the substrate and connecting the substrates equal to or more than three, there has been such a case that wiring hooked up to the substrate becomes longer than the size of the hooked up substrate. Usually, the thickness of the substrate is approximately several hundreds μm, the thickness of the semiconductor chip is approximately several tens μm to several hundreds μm, and the substrate size is approximately several tens cm square. Therefore, the wiring among the decoder, the demodulator, and the function extending LSI can be remarkably shortened by laminating the respective substrates. As a result, since the inductor component and the stray capacitance component in the wiring can be suppressed, the electrical characteristics are improved, the transmission delay time of the electrical signal is shortened, and the performance due to the transmission of a higher speed signal can be improved. Further, the wiring among the decoder, the demodulator, and the function extending LSI is shortened. The false operation due to waveform distortion generated by the electrical signal reflection or the like, and the interference on the tuner due to radiation noise, and the like are also suppressed. This leads to a higher performance.

In addition, according to a circuit module according to the present invention, it is possible to miniaturize the same circuit module into an LSI package size while mounting the semiconductor or the circuit for analog signal processing together with the semiconductor or the circuit for digital signal processing. Further, when the physical arrangements and types of the interlayer terminal group such as bumps and vias are relatively in common and preliminarily defined in respective types of function layers. The physical arrangements of an interlayer terminal group for an analog signal and a digital signal can be separated into different positions. Further, the interlayer terminal for the grounding conductor is arranged between the interlayer terminal for the analog signal and the interlayer terminal for the digital signal. Accordingly, the electrical separation can be achieved, and then, the electrical interference of the digital signal against the analog signal can be suppressed, and this leads to a higher performance.

In addition, according to the circuit module for use in the DTV receiver according to the present invention, the decoder layer common to each nation and region, the demodulation function layer to each region, the extension function layer provided with the function extension LSI, and the tuner function layer are multi-layered. Accordingly, it is possible to miniaturize the same into a semiconductor chip size by including the demodulator, the tuner, and the function extension LSI that have been conventionally mounted on the mother-board. As a result, the circuit module and the mother-board can be reduced in size, and this leads to miniaturization of the digital television receiver using the same.

Further, according to the circuit module for a DTV receiver according to the present invention, the decoder layer common to each nation and region, and a plurality of types of demodulation function layers and a plurality of types of extension function layers to each region are prepared. At the same time, the physical arrangements and transmitting electrical signal types of the interlayer terminal group such as bumps and vias are relatively in common defined in respective types of demodulation function layers or respective types of extension function layers. Therefore, the bumps and the vias formerly served as only for connecting a layer can be dealt as a connector terminal of an interface for replacing the layer. In addition, reduction in size can be remarkably achieved as compared with the case where a usual substrate connector is used.

In addition, according to the circuit module for the DTV receiver according to the present invention, the layer to be laminated or multi-layered is selected in response to a television broadcasting wave signal of each nation and region, and then, the direct connection to the television broadcasting wave signal and the CA module of each market can be achieved. Therefore, the circuit module according to the present invention can guarantee the operation by connecting to the television broadcasting wave signal of each nation and region and the CA module of each market.

Further, the mother-board connectably complied with the circuit module for the DTV receiver according to the present invention is prepared for each nation, region, and market, and then, the receivers to each nation, region, and market can be commercialized by connecting the circuit module to the mother-board. Therefore, the circuit module according to the present invention is used, and the mother-board mounted with the connector for the television broadcasting wave signal and the socket for the CA module of each market is designed and connected to the circuit module for the DTV receiver according to the present invention, and then, the manufacturers of the digital television receiver can easily commercialize the digital television receivers to each nation, region, and market.

In addition, if authentication for the operation including the CA module using the circuit module for the DTV receiver according to the present invention is completed by a certification authority of each market, trouble and cost caused by the authentication for each product can be saved. As a result, it makes possible to reduce the cost for commercialization by the manufacturers, and cost reduction of the digital television receiver can be achieved.

In addition, according to the circuit module for the DTV receiver according to the present invention, the interface circuit and the socket for connecting to a plurality of types of CA modules that are different in the electrical specifications of each market can move to the common architecture. Therefore, the circuit module corresponding to the whole world including the CA interface is realized to be able to be commercialized without any increase in the manufacturing cost. Therefore, the cost reduction by mass production effect can be achieved, and it is possible to contribute to spread of the digital television receiver.

Further, the circuit module including the CA interface can be realized without any increase in the number of connecting terminals with the CA module. The increase in the number of terminals due to connecting to a tuner of each nation and region and a CA module of each market can be suppressed. Therefore, in particular, according to the present invention, it is possible to solve such a problem that any reduction in size cannot be achieved because the chip area is determined by the area of the connecting terminals when the substrate mounted with the decoder common to each nation and region, and the substrate mounted with the demodulator to each region are multi-layered and microminiaturized into a semiconductor chip size or an LSI package size.

Furthermore, according to the circuit module for the DTV receiver according to the present invention, the network-related function can be provided by further laminating the network extension function layer. In addition, the interface can be extended by further laminating the HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) extension function layer. Further, the CATV modem function can be provided by laminating the CATV modem extension function layer. In this case, both the network extension function layer and the network extension function layer can be multi-layered, and the area of the circuit module is not changed even in that case.

Therefore, the circuit module for the DTV receiver according to the present invention is used, and the mother-board mounted with the connector for the television broadcasting wave signal and each socket for a CA module of each market is designed and connected. Accordingly, the manufacturers of the digital television receiver can easily commercialize digital television receivers from low-end to high-end to each region and market by combining the mother-board at lower cost, in smaller size, and at lightweight as compared with the prior art.

Furthermore, the integrated density can be further increased by mounting the general-purpose component such as the other memory and a VCXO on the upper surface and the back side of the multi-layered circuit module for the DTV receiver. This makes it possible to mount components, which have been mounted on the mother-board connected to the circuit module for the DTV receiver related to the prior art, on the upper surface and the back side of the circuit module for the DTV receiver. In addition, it is also possible to laminate or multi-layer a formerly externally mounted demodulator and the function extension LSI inside the circuit module. This makes it possible to mount the components, which have been mounted on the board connected to the circuit module for the DTV receiver related to the prior art, on an inside layer of the circuit module for the DTV receiver. Therefore, a digital television receiver can also further be reduced in size by using the circuit module for the DTV receiver according to the present invention. Then the digital television receiver according to the present invention can be reduced in size and weight by using the circuit module according to the present invention, and can be applied to the mobile receiver, an in-vehicle receiver, and the like. This makes it possible to contribute to spread of the digital television receiver.

The advantageous effects in the above circuit module for the DTV receiver can be also provided in the case of circuit modules for use in the other AV apparatuses which output video and audio signals, for example, the video playing-back apparatus such as a camera and a DVD player, a music reproduction apparatus such as a headphone stereo, and the like.

EXPLANATIONS OF NUMERICAL REFERENCES

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Embodiments according to the present invention will be described hereinafter with reference to the drawings. Further, the same reference numerals are given to the same components.

First Embodiment

FIG. 1is a partially exploded mounting view of a television receiver upon mounting a circuit module1on a mother-board201and upon mounting the mother-board201in a receiver housing204in a television receiver according to a first embodiment of the present invention. In addition,FIG. 2is a top view of the circuit module1shown inFIG. 1, andFIG. 3is a back side view of the circuit module1shown inFIG. 1. Further,FIG. 4is an exploded perspective view showing a multi-layer structure of the circuit module1shown inFIG. 1.FIG. 5is a sectional view showing the multi-layer structure of the circuit module1shown inFIG. 1. The present embodiment is characterized in that the circuit module1according to the first embodiment is mounted, and a display204D such as a liquid crystal display, a plasma display, or the like is mounted. Further,FIG. 1is a rear view, and the display204D is mounted on a front face which is the back side ofFIG. 1. Further, it may be configured that the other television receiver, for example, a set-top box, a mobile terminal, and the circuit module1in a PC are mounted in the television receiver.

Referring toFIG. 1, the circuit module1is mounted on the mother-board201which is mounted with a tuner202of each nation and region, a socket205for connecting CA modules14-1,14-2, and14-3of each market (SeeFIG. 6, collectively given reference numeral14hereinafter), and a display interface206for outputting a digital audio signal or an analog audio signal, and a digital video signal (these signals are content signals including so-called audio-visual signal). The display interface206is provided for connecting the video signal and the audio signal outputted from the circuit module1to a connected display such as a liquid crystal display, a plasma display, and a CRT display, and the display interface206is realized by a different circuit in response to connecting specifications on the display side. Further, the audio signal is outputted to a speaker provided inside the display or outside the display. The mother-board201is formed with a plurality of lands corresponding to an arrangement of a plurality of solder balls9, and the mother-board201and the circuit module1are physically and electrically connected by a reflow process. The mother-board201to which the circuit module1is connected is incorporated in a housing of a television set204supported by a support base207together with a power supply unit203and a display drive unit208. Further, the display interface206is connected to the display204D via a display driving circuit208.

Referring toFIG. 1, the circuit module1for the television receiver is mounted at a position1A of the mother-board201made of a dielectric substrate, and the mother-board201is mounted at a position201A of the receiver housing204.

The mother-board201provided with the lands corresponding to the solder balls9of the circuit module1is prepared for each nation, region, and market. Accordingly, it makes possible to commercialize a television receiver to each nation, region, and market by connecting to the circuit module1. In addition, even to the same nation, region, and market, for example, when the television set and the set-top box which are different in a display device such as a liquid crystal digital television set, a plasma television set, and a CRT television set are commercialized, the mother-board201provided with the lands corresponding to the circuit module1is prepared for each display device. Accordingly, the television set provided with each display device can be commercialized by connecting to the circuit module1. Similarly, the television set provided with each display device for each nation, region, and market can be commercialized.

Further, in the present embodiment, the connecting method by the reflow process using the solder balls and the lands is used as the connecting method between the circuit module1and the mother-board201. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a connecting method by a connector and cable may be used provided that the circuit module1and the mother-board201are physically and electrically connected.

Referring toFIG. 2, circuit components mounted on the component arrangement surface that is the upper surface of the circuit module1include a working memory4of a decoder LSI2to be described later, a voltage controlled crystal oscillator (referred to as a VCXO hereinafter)5for generating a clock of the decoder LSI2and outputting the same, a ROM6for storing data such as a program code for a CPU in the decoder LSI2, and a plurality of capacitors7connected to a power supply (not shown) for each circuit component. That is, the VCXO5that is a semiconductor for analog signal processing, the memory4that is a semiconductor for digital signal processing, and the ROM6are mounted together on the circuit module1.

Referring toFIG. 3, the circuit components mounted on the soldering surface that is the back side of the circuit module1include a plurality of capacitors10connected to the power supply of the decoder LSI2, and the plurality of solder balls9that are external terminals of the circuit module1and connects the signal lines and power supply lines upon mounting the circuit module1on the mother-board201. The upper surface and the back side of the circuit module1are mainly mounted with general-purpose circuit components.

Referring toFIG. 4, the circuit module1is composed of a plurality of printed circuit board layers501,502,401,504,411,514,620-1,506,507, and508having a multi-layer structure, and circuit components mounted on those layers. As shown inFIG. 4, the circuit module1includes the following:

(a) the signal wiring layer substrate501on the upper surface side on which the circuit components4to7shown inFIG. 2are mounted;

(b) the signal wiring layer substrate502;

(c) the extension function layer substrate401for extending a network function, and is mounted with an Ethernet interface402(in this case, Ethernet is a trademark, referred to as the same hereinafter), a hard disk drive interface403, and a communication controller404as shown inFIG. 6;

(d) the signal wiring layer substrate504;

(e) the extension function layer substrate411for extending a network function, and is mounted with a cable modem412as shown inFIG. 6;

(f) the signal wiring layer substrate514;

(g) the demodulation function layer substrate620-1for the demodulation function for Japan, and is mounted with a demodulator for Japan12-1and a memory for a demodulator511as shown inFIG. 6;

(h) the signal wiring layer substrate506;

(i) the decoder layer substrate507for the decode function, and is mounted with a CA interface circuit3that is a common interface directly connectable to the decoder LSI2for performing decode processing corresponding to a compression system in digital television broadcasting of each nation and region, and a CA module14at each market, as shown inFIG. 6; and

(j) the signal wiring layer substrate508;

The circuit module1has the multi-layered structure multi-layered in the thickness direction of the respective substrates so that the substrates substantially become parallel to each other.

In this case, the Ethernet interface402, the hard disk drive interface403, the communication controller404, the demodulator for Japan12-1, the memory for the demodulator511, the decoder LSI2, and the CA interface circuit3are mounted on the inside layer. Accordingly, the configuration is of a semiconductor bare chip, and then, it is possible to mount on the substrate by wire bonding and flip chip bonding. In addition, each substrate set represents a multi-layer substrate.FIG. 4shows an example of a two-layer substrate. However, the number of layers is not limited, and a multi-layer substrate equal to or larger than four layers may be used.

By being configured as described above, the circuit module1can be micro-miniaturized into a semiconductor chip size or an LSI package size as compared with the prior art. In addition, a demodulation function and an extension function can be added by laminating without increasing an area thereof. In addition, the types of the demodulation function and the extension function can be selected by replacing the types of the laminating substrates. Further, the extension function layer substrate401, the demodulation function layer substrate620-1, and the decoder layer substrate507that are the inside layers may be mounted with a capacitor and a resistor together with a semiconductor bare chip of an LSI and a memory. This leads to increase in the mounting rate of the circuit components in the inner package of the circuit module1, and then, the DTV broadcast receiver using the circuit module1can be further reduced in size.

Next, the multi-layered structure of the circuit module1will be described usingFIG. 5. The signal wiring layer substrate501and502are glued together by a predetermined adhesive, and general-purpose circuit components such as the memory4and the capacitor7are mounted on the signal wiring layer substrate501. In this case, the circuit components4to7shown inFIG. 2are mounted. The wiring between the upper surface of the signal wiring layer substrate501and the upper surface of the signal wiring layer substrate502is connected through vias523, and wiring between the upper surface of the signal wiring layer substrate501and the back side of the signal wiring layer substrate502is connected through through holes521. There are many vias523and many through holes521in the respective substrates401,504,411,514,620-1,506,507, and508shown inFIG. 5. Description of each of the vias and the through holes is omitted. Further, in this description, terms of “through hole” and “via” are used. In this case, the through hole means a through hole conductor which is made of a conductor filled in a through hole, and the via means a via conductor which is made of a conductor filled in the via.

In addition, the extension function layer substrate401and the signal wiring layer substrate504are glued together using the predetermined adhesive, and the signal wiring layer substrate502and the extension function layer substrate401are electrically and physically connected by a plurality of bumps524that are connecting terminals. The bump524is an electrical conductor connected on the land made of a conductive thin film prepared on the upper surface and the back side of the respective substrates502and401, and this is the same hereinafter. Referring toFIG. 5, only seven bumps524are shown between the signal wiring layer substrate502and the extension function layer substrate401. Then there are actually many bumps between this interlayer and the other interlayers. Description of each of the bumps524will be omitted. The respective substrates501,502,401,504, and the like are printed circuit board having a thickness of several hundreds μm. The bump524is preferably a protruded electrode made of gold, silver, or the like having a height of several μm to several tens μm, or a solder ball having a diameter of several hundreds μm. Therefore, a circuit component such as a bare chip mounted on the inside layer is required to be mounted by making thinner than the bump height in such case.

Furthermore, the demodulation function layer substrate620-1and the signal wiring layer substrate506are glued together using the predetermined adhesive, and the signal wiring layer substrate514and the demodulation function layer substrate620-1are electrically and physically connected by a plurality of bumps524. In addition, the decoder layer substrate507and the signal wiring layer substrate508are glued together using the predetermined adhesive, and the signal wiring layer substrate506and the decoder layer substrate507are electrically and physically connected by a plurality of bumps524. A plurality of solder balls9is formed on the back side of the wiring layer substrate508.

The physical arrangements and transmitting electrical signal types of the bumps524between the signal wiring layer substrate504and the demodulation function layer substrate620-1are determined by relatively in common and preliminarily defining respective types of the extension function layer substrates401and411and the signal wiring layer substrates504and514. The physical arrangements and transmitting electrical signal types of the bumps524between the signal wiring layer substrate506and the decoder layer substrate507are determined by preliminarily in common defining the respective types of the demodulation function layer substrate620-1and the signal wiring layer substrate506. The detailed types of the electrical signals between the signal wiring layer substrate504and the demodulation function layer substrate620-1, and between the signal wiring layer substrate506and the decoder layer substrate507will be described later.

Next, referring toFIG. 5, the arrangement method defined in common on the connecting terminals such as the bump524and the solder ball9will be described hereinafter. Connecting terminals T2(the rightmost connecting terminals shown inFIG. 5), which are connecting conductors including the solder ball9, the bump524, and the through hole and transmits the MPEG-2_TS signals inputted from the demodulator12-1to the decoder LSI2, are arranged by being formed between respective substrates from the demodulation function layer substrate620-1to the decoder layer substrate507. Connecting terminals T4and T5(second connecting terminals from the rightmost end shown inFIG. 5) including, for example, the bumps for transmitting type-identifying information for identifying a type of the demodulation function layer substrate620-1, are arranged by being formed between respective substrates from the demodulation function layer substrate620-1to the decoder layer substrate507. Connecting terminals T6(the leftmost connecting terminals shown inFIG. 5) including the bumps for connecting the extension function layer substrate401are arranged by being formed between respective substrates from the extension function layer substrate401to the decoder layer substrate507. Connecting terminals T7(second connecting terminals from the leftmost end shown inFIG. 5) including the bumps for connecting the memory4and the ROM6are arranged by being formed between respective substrates from the signal wiring layer substrate501to the decoder layer substrate507. Connecting terminals T8(fourth connecting terminals from the rightmost end shown inFIG. 5) including the bump connectable to the VCXO5are arranged by being formed between respective substrates from the signal wiring layer substrate501to the decoder layer substrate507. Connecting terminals T1including the solder balls9for connecting a video signal and an audio signal outputted from the decoder LSI2and inputted to the display driving circuit208via the display interface206, and connecting terminals T3including the solder balls9connected to the socket205which is connected to each CA module14are arranged by being formed between respective substrates from the decoder layer substrate507to the main board201(SeeFIG. 1). Connecting terminals T9including, for example, the solder balls9and the bumps for transmitting an intermediate frequency signal inputted from the tuner202to the demodulator12-1are arranged by being formed between respective substrates from the demodulation function layer substrate620-1to the main board201. As to be described in detail later, connecting terminals T10including the solder balls9for transmitting communication packet data from a network to the Ethernet interface402, and for transmitting content data from the hard disk drive to the hard disk drive interface403are arranged by being formed between respective substrates from the extension function layer substrate401to the main board201.

In addition, fromFIG. 5, the followings are turned out:

(1) For example, the connecting terminals T6to T11including the bumps524are arranged on the outer side than the circuit components mounted on the inside layer substrates401,411,620-1, and507. Therefore, the circuit components can be mounted in the vicinity of the substrate center with higher area efficiency and in such a state with small restriction of the connecting terminals T6to T10, and the connecting terminals T6to T10can be arranged with better area efficiency and a small required area.

(2) The solder balls9located at the outermost lines (two left and right lines and two upper and lower lines located outermost shown inFIG. 3(these four lines form a rectangular shape)) are arranged on the inner side than the connecting terminals T6to T10which are located at the outermost lines. Therefore, the solder balls9can be mounted with higher area efficiency and with small restriction of the connecting terminals T6to T10.

(3) A land diameter on the circuit module1for connecting the connecting terminals T6to T10is smaller than a land diameter on the circuit module1for connecting the solder balls9, and an arrangement interval of the connecting terminals T6to T10is smaller than an arrangement interval of the solder balls9. Therefore, further reduction in size can be achieved by mounting an inside layer portion of the circuit module1in high density.

(4) The connecting terminals T8including the bumps are arranged on the inner side than the other connecting terminals T6, T7, T9, and T10. Therefore, regarding the connecting clock signals especially required for electrical characteristics, the wiring distances between the circuit components can be particularly shortened. As a result, the transmission delay time of the clock signal is shortened, and signal transmission performance can be improved. Further, the false operation due to waveform distortion generated by a clock signal reflection or the like, the interference on the tuner due to radiation noise, and the like can be suppressed.

Further, the multi-layered structure may be a structure, so-called a silicon through electrode (also referred to as SI through electrode) in which the above described bump524is formed on the upper surface and the back side of the silicon chip, and a plurality of silicon chips are electrically connected with the bumps and are multi-layered.

Therefore, the bump524group formerly served as only for connecting layers can be dealt as interface connector terminals for replacing the layers. As a result, selection of an extending function can be selected by replacing the layer. Therefore, as for the extension function layer substrate401or411and the signal wiring layer substrate504or514, respective substrate sets concerning a plurality of types of the extension functions are prepared, and lamination or multi-layering can be made by selecting one of the substrate sets and by replacing the same. A plurality of types of the functions can be extended by laminating a plurality of types of the extension function layer substrates401. In addition, a plurality of types of the demodulation function layer substrate620-1and the signal wiring layer substrate506are prepared for each nation and region. Accordingly, lamination or multi-layering can be made by selecting and replacing the same.

In addition, since the interlayer is capable of directly connecting with an interlayer connecting terminal group such as the bump524and the via523, the simple structure which does not require any intermediate member having wiring such as an interposer in the interlayer can be realized. In addition, a pitch of a usual connector for use in the connection between the substrates is several mm. On the other hand, a pitch of the bump524is approximately several ten μm to several hundred μm. Therefore, the bump524is used as a connector terminal. Then the required area of the connector can be remarkably reduced as compared with the case where the usual connector for use in the connection between the substrates is used, and this leads to reduction in the size thereof.

In addition, each of the decoder layer substrate507and the signal wiring layer substrate508, the extension function layer substrate401and the signal wiring layer substrate504, the extension function layer substrate411and the signal wiring layer substrate514, and the demodulation function layer substrate620-1and the signal wiring layer substrate506serves as a single substrate, respectively, and then, the operation can be also confirmed by each single piece. Therefore, the decoder layer substrate507and the signal wiring layer substrate508, the extension function layer substrate401and the signal wiring layer substrate504, the extension function layer substrate411and the signal wiring layer substrate514, and the demodulation function layer substrate620-1and the signal wiring layer substrate506, the operation of each of which is confirmed by the single piece, are combined. Then they are multi-layered on the circuit module1, and then the circuit module1can improve the manufacturing yield thereof. Further, inFIG. 5, lamination or multi-layering is performed in the order of the extension function layer substrates401and411, the demodulation function layer substrate620-1, and the decoder layer substrate507from the upper surface. In this case, the lamination order is not limited.

In addition, as shown inFIG. 5, the decoder LSI2is arranged at roughly the center of the decoder layer substrate507of the circuit module1, and the working memory4is arranged at roughly the center of the upper surface of the circuit module1. Therefore, the wiring between the decoder LSI2and the working memory4has the length substantially equal to the thickness of eight substrates and four bumps, and then, the wiring can be shortened. Therefore, since an inductor component and a stray capacitance component in the wiring can be suppressed, and electrical characteristics are improved, the transmission delay time of the electrical signals is shortened, and signal transmission performance can be improved. Further, the false operation due to waveform distortion generated by an electrical signal reflection or the like, the interference on the tuner due to radiation noise, and the like can be suppressed.

In addition, the demodulator12-1is arranged at roughly the center of the demodulation function layer substrate620-1. The wiring between the decoder LSI2and the demodulator12-1has the length substantially equal to the thickness of two substrates and one bump, and then, the wiring can be shortened. Therefore, since an inductor component and a stray capacitance component in the wiring can be suppressed, and electrical characteristics of the wiring are improved. The transmission delay time of the electrical signal is shortened, and signal transmission performance can be improved. Further, the false operation due to waveform distortion generated by an electrical signal reflection or the like, the interference on the tuner due to radiation noise, and the like can be suppressed.

In addition, the communication controller404is arranged at roughly the center of the extension function layer substrate401. The wiring between the decoder LSI2and the communication controller404has the length substantially equal to the thickness of six substrates and three bumps, and then, the wiring can be shortened. Therefore, since an inductor component and a stray capacitance component in the wiring can be suppressed, and electrical characteristics of the wiring are improved, and then, the transmission delay time of the electrical signals is shortened, and signal transmission performance can be improved. Further, the false operation due to waveform distortion generated by an electrical signal reflection or the like, the interference on the tuner due to radiation noise, and the like can be suppressed.

In addition, the decoder layer substrate507mounted with a decoder common to each nation and region, the demodulation function layer substrate620-1mounted with a demodulator to each region, and the extension function layer substrates401and411mounted with a function extending LSI corresponding to a network or the like are multi-layered. Accordingly, it is possible to miniaturize the same into a semiconductor chip size or an LSI package size by incorporating a demodulator that has been conventionally mounted on a mother-board, and a function extension LSI that has been conventionally mounted on the function extension substrate. As a result, the mother-board and the function extension substrate can be reduced in size, and this leads to miniaturization of the digital television receiver.

Further, in the above embodiment, there is shown a configuration in which respective circuit components are multi-layered by being mounted on the plurality of printed circuit boards501,502,401,504,620-1,506,507, and508of the circuit module1. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the above respective circuit components may be multi-layered by being mounted on the semiconductor chip, and stored in a LSI package by connecting with the bump.

FIG. 6is a block diagram showing a system configuration including the circuit module1and the mother-board201shown inFIG. 1. The system configuration shown inFIG. 6will be described hereinafter.

Referring toFIG. 6, mother-boards201-1,201-2, and201-3(collectively given reference numeral201hereinafter), any one of which is to be selected, are composed of tuners612-1,612-2, and612-3(collectively given reference numeral612hereinafter) connected to antennas12A. Card sockets13-1,13-2, and13-3(collectively given reference numeral13hereinafter) into which the CA modules14are inserted; and the display interfaces206. Further, the tuner612is of a tuner such as the tuner202explained inFIG. 1. In addition, the circuit module1includes the decoder layer substrate507mounted with the decoder LSI2provided with the decoder18and the CPU19, the CA interface circuit3, and the IC card interface22, the wiring layer substrate501mounted with a plurality of memories4, the VCXO5, and the ROM6, demodulation function layer substrates620-1,620-2, and620-3(collectively given reference numeral620hereinafter) mounted with demodulators12-1,12-2, and12-3(collectively given reference numeral12hereinafter), the network extension function layer substrate401, and the CATV modem extension function layer substrate411. In this case, the VCXO5and the memory4are connected to the decoder LSI2, and then, the CPU19, the CA interface circuit3, the ROM6, the IC card interface22are connected via a bus19B. Further, description of the substrate configuration of the circuit module1shown inFIG. 6is the same as that of the substrate configuration shown inFIGS. 4 and 5. In this case, some of the substrates are not shown in the drawing.

The tuner612of the mother-board201receives a digital television broadcasting wave signal via the antenna12A, frequency converts the digital television broadcasting wave signal into a predetermined intermediate frequency signal, and outputs the same to the demodulator12in the circuit module1. The demodulator12demodulates the above frequency-converted intermediate frequency signal into the MPEG-2_TS signal (this signal includes a video digital data signal and an audio digital data signal) using the connected memory511, and outputs the same to the CA interface circuit3. The CA interface circuit3guarantees the operation by physically and electrically connecting the interface with the MPEG-2_TS signal. Even if the demodulator12is any of the demodulator12-2in conformity with the DVB-T system, the demodulator12-1in conformity with the ISDB-T system, and the demodulator12-3in conformity with the ATSC system using a VSB system, the demodulator can be directly connected to the CA interface circuit3.

The socket205shown inFIG. 1, includes the IC card socket13-1, the CI card socket13-2, and the cable card socket13-3. Since any of the CI card in the DVB-T system and a cable card in an open cable has the same physical specifications as a PC card (each have electrically different specifications), the cards can be connected by inserting into the same socket. The IC card has physical specifications different from each other. In the circuit module1according to the present embodiment, connection with the CA module14is guaranteed physically and electrically as to be described later, and then, any one of the CI card, the cable card, and the IC card can be connected by directly inserting. The circuit module1can be commercialized by guaranteeing the operation by connecting to the CA module14in America and Europe.

The circuit configuration of the CA interface circuit3will be described in detail later. The operation of the CA interface circuit3is controlled by the CPU19, and the CA interface circuit3includes a circuit for inputting the MPEG-2_TS signal from the demodulator12and for outputting the same to the decoder18of post descrambler processing, and an interface circuit for guaranteeing the operation by electrically connecting to the CA modules14(the CI card and the cable card). The MPEG-2_TS signal from the demodulator12is outputted to the CA modules14(the CI card and the cable card) via the CI card socket13-2or the cable card socket13-3, and is descrambled by the CA modules14(the CI card and the cable card). The MPEG-2_TS signal of post descrambling is outputted from the CA modules14(the CI card and the cable card) to the decoder18in the decoder LSI2via the CI card socket13-2or the cable card socket13-3. In addition, the CA interface circuit3is also connected to the bus19B of the CPU19in order to access a resister or a memory, in which an attribute is written, in the CA modules14(the CI card and the cable card). That is, the CA interface circuit3performs input and output processing on a plurality of stream signals and data signals communicated among the demodulator12, the CA module14(the CI card and the cable card), the decoder18, and the CPU19to the CA module14(the CI card and the cable card).

The IC card socket13-1is a socket into which the CA module14(the IC card) is inserted. The CA module14of the ISDB-T system has the same physical specifications and electrical specifications as those of the IC card, and therefore, the CA module14can be connected to the IC card socket13-1. The IC card interface22is inserted between the IC card socket13-1and the bus19B of the CPU19, and executes interface processing of electrical input and output on the signals between the IC card connected to the IC card socket13-1and the CPU19. Further, the number of connecting terminals of the IC card is 8. The circuit module1can be commercialized by guaranteeing the operation by also connecting to the CA module14in Japan.

In addition, the circuit module1is characterized in that the IC card interface22and the CA interface circuit3are connected by putting together to the common connecting terminal T3.

A buffer22B is provided on the connecting terminal T3side of the IC card interface22, and a buffer3B is provided on the connecting terminal T3side of the CA interface circuit3. In this case, the buffers3B and22B are turned on/off by the control of the CPU19. The connecting terminal T3side of each of the buffers3B and22B is connected to the connecting terminal T3. Further, in this description, term of “buffer” means a buffer amplifier.

When the demodulation function layer substrate for Japan620-1which uses the ISDB-T system described with reference toFIG. 6is connected, the CPU19turns the buffer22B on, and turns the buffer3B off. At this time, electrical specifications of the connecting terminal T3conform to a system which uses the IC card, and becomes electrical specifications of the IC card determined by the IC card interface22. On the other hand, when the demodulation function layer substrate for Europe620-2which uses the CI card, or the demodulation function layer substrate for North America620-3which uses the cable card are connected. The CPU19turns the buffer22B off, and turns the buffer3B on. At this time, the electrical specifications of the connecting terminal T3conform to a system which uses the cable card or the CI card, and becomes electrical specifications of the cable card or the CI card determined by the CA interface circuit3. This allows the connecting terminal T3to be used for the IC card interface22and the CA interface circuit3. That is, when the demodulation function layer substrate620-1is connected to the decoder layer substrate507, the IC card socket13-1and the IC card interface22are connected, and the IC card interface22operates. On the other hand, when the demodulation function layer substrate620-2or620-3is connected to the decoder layer substrate507, the CI card socket13-2or the cable card socket13-3is connected to the CA interface circuit3, and the CA interface circuit3operates.

The decoder LSI2is composed of the decoder18and the CPU19which are hardware engines, and the decoder LSI2performs decoding processing which inputs the MPEG-2_TS signal, decodes the MPEG-2_TS signal to a video signal and an audio signal, and outputs the same. The decoder LSI2can decode the MPEG-2_TS signal by adapting to the difference among the MPEG-2 specifications in the DVB-T system, and the system such as the ATSC and the ISDB-T, the H.264 which is to be standardized in the future, and the like. The decoded video signal and audio signal are outputted to the display device via the panel interface206. In addition, a video signal and an audio signal are inputted from an interface such as the Ethernet or the HDMI, decoding processing is performed, and the decoded video signal and audio signal are outputted to the display device via the panel interface206.

The plurality of memories4are connected to the CPU19and the decoder18in the decoder LSI2, used as a secondary cache memory and the other application's working memory of data signals of the CPU19, and also used as a working memory of data signals in encoding processing of the decoder18. In addition, the VCXO5generates an MPEG-2 system clock 27 MHz or the like in which the decoder18uses, and outputs the same to the decoder LSI2. Further, the ROM6stores a program code and data for operating the CPU19, and is connected to the bus19B of the CPU19so that the stored program code and data can be read from the CPU19.

The thus configured circuit module1can guarantee the operation in a single piece by physically and electrically connecting to the demodulator12and the CA module14in the DVB-T system, the ISDB-T system, the ATSC system, and the open cable system. The circuit module1can also decode a compressed video signal and audio signal in the DVB-T system, the ISDB-T system, the ATSC system, the open cable system, and the like, and can output the same.

In addition,FIG. 6shows the circuit module1, three types of the mother-boards201-1,201-2, and201-3to each nation and region, which are connected to the circuit module1, and two types of the network extension function layer substrate401and the CATV modem extension function layer substrate411. In addition, the circuit module1is composed of the signal line wiring substrate501multi-layered on the decoder layer substrate507, any one of three types of the demodulation function layer substrates620-1,620-2, and620-3, and two types of the network extension function layer substrate401and the CATV modem extension function layer substrate411. The circuit module1is characterized in that the circuit module1can be connected to any one of the three types of the mother-boards201-1,201-2, and201-3. In addition, the decoder layer substrate507is characterized in that the decoder layer substrate507can be connected to any one of the three types of the demodulation function layer substrates620-1,620-2, and620-3. In addition, the decoder layer substrate507is characterized in that the decoder layer substrate507can be connected by laminating any one, or both, of the two types of the network extension function layer substrate401and the CATV modem extension function layer substrate411.

Further, a features of the present embodiment is that the connecting terminals T1to T8of the decoder layer substrate507and the connecting terminals T9and T10of the circuit module1are grouped according to application, and relatively and commonly connected using connectable specifications on the respective demodulation function layer substrates620-1,620-2, and620-3, the network extension function layer substrate401, the CATV modem extension function layer substrate411, and the respective mother-boards201-1,201-2, and201-3. The connecting terminals T1to T5are concretely grouped as follows:

(a) the connecting terminal T1for transmitting the digital or analog video signals and the audio signals, which are outputted from the decoder18and inputted to the display driving circuit208via the display interface206;

(b) the connecting terminal T4or T5for the control voltage V1or V2, which inputs type-identifying data information for identifying a type of the demodulation function layer substrate620-1,620-2or620-3to the CPU19;

(c) the connecting terminal T2connected to the demodulator12-1,12-2, or12-3for use in each destination to each nation and region, for transmitting the digital MPEG-2_TS signal inputted from the demodulator12-1,12-2, or12-3to the CA interface circuit3;

(d) the connecting terminal T3connected to the IC card socket13-1, the CI card socket13-2, or the cable card socket13-3, into which each CA module14is inserted, for transmitting a digital input and output data signal and a stream signal of the CA module inserted into the socket;

(e) the connecting terminal T6connected to the bus19B of the CPU19, for transmitting a digital data signal by connecting to the network extension function layer substrate401or the CATV modem extension function layer substrate411;

(f) the connecting terminal T7for transmitting a digital data signal by connecting the decoder LSI2to the memory4or the ROM6;

(g) the connecting terminal T8for transmitting a digital clock signal by connecting the decoder LSI2to the VCXO5;

(h) the connecting terminal T9for transmitting an analog intermediate frequency signal by connecting the tuner612to the demodulator12; and

(i) the connecting terminal T10for transmitting a digital data signal by connecting the network to the Ethernet interface402, the hard disk drive to the hard disk drive interface403, and the CATV head-end to the cable modem412.

In this case, the connecting terminal T3is connected to the CA interface circuit3or the IC card interface22via the buffer3B or the buffer22B, as described above.

Referring toFIG. 6, the demodulation function layer substrate for Japan620-1includes the demodulator for Japan12-1and a circuit for outputting the control voltages V1and V2each having an electric potential of a grounding conductor. When the decoder layer substrate507is connected to the demodulation function layer substrate for Japan620-1, the CPU19reads the control voltages V1and V2, recognizes that the demodulation function layer substrate620-1is connected, and recognizes that a digital television broadcasting wave signal of the ISDB-T system is inputted. Then, the CPU19sets the decoder18to perform decoding processing of the video signal and the audio signal in conformity with the ISDB-T system, on the MPEG-2_TS signal inputted from the demodulator for Japan12-1via the connecting terminal T2. In addition, as described above, the CPU19connects the IC card socket13-1to the IC card interface22via the connecting terminal T3and the buffer22B. At this time, the display interface206receives the video signal and the audio signal outputted from the decoder18in the circuit module1via the connecting terminal T1, performs a predetermined interface processing, and then, outputs the same to the display204D via the display driving circuit208.

In addition, the demodulation function layer substrate for Europe620-2includes the demodulator for Europe12-2, and a circuit for outputting the control voltage V1having the electric potential of the grounding conductor and a control voltage V2(not connected) having a supply voltage Vcc on the circuit module1side. When the decoder layer substrate507is connected to the demodulation function layer substrate for Europe620-2, the CPU19reads the control voltages V1and V2, recognizes that the demodulation function layer substrate for Europe620-2is connected, and recognizes that a digital television broadcasting wave signal of the DVB-T system is inputted. Then, the CPU19sets the decoder18to perform decoding processing of the video signal and the audio signal in conformity with the DVB-T system, on the MPEG-2_TS signal inputted from the demodulator for Europe12-2via the connecting terminal T2. In addition, as described above, the CPU19connects the CI card socket13-2to the CA interface circuit3via the connecting terminal T3and the buffer3B, and sets an operation mode of the CA interface circuit3to the DVB-T system. At this time, the display interface206receives the video signal and the audio signal outputted from the decoder18of the circuit module1via the connecting terminal T1, performs a predetermined interface processing, and then, outputs the same to the display204D via the display driving circuit208.

Further, the demodulation function layer substrate for North America620-3includes the demodulator for North America12-3, and a circuit for outputting a control voltage V1(not connected) having the supply voltage Vcc on the circuit module1side and the control voltage V2having the electric potential of the grounding conductor. When the decoder layer substrate507is connected to the demodulation function layer substrate for North America620-3, the CPU19reads the control voltages V1and V2, recognizes that the demodulation function layer substrate for North America620-3is connected, and recognizes that a digital television broadcasting wave signal of the ATSC system and the open cable system is inputted. Then, the CPU19sets the decoder18to perform decoding processing of the video signal and the audio signal in conformity with the ATSC system, on the MPEG-2_TS signal inputted from the demodulator for North America12-3via the connecting terminal T2. In addition, as described above, the CPU19connects the cable card socket13-3to the CA interface circuit3via the connecting terminal T3and the buffer3B, and sets an operation mode of the CA interface circuit3to the open cable system. At this time, the display interface206receives the video signal and the audio signal outputted from the decoder18of the circuit module1via the connecting terminal T1, performs a predetermined interface processing, and then, outputs the same to the display204D via the display driving circuit208.

FIGS. 12,13, and14are views showing tables of the input and output signals and terminals of the CA modules14including the IC card using the ISDB-T system in Japan, the CI card using the DVB-T system in Europe, and the cable card using the open cable system in North America in the system according to the first embodiment. As is apparent fromFIG. 12toFIG. 14, the CA modules of the respective systems can be connected in common to the decoder layer substrate507using the connecting terminals T3. In addition, the tables show that the input and output signals and the terminals change depending on the above respective systems.

FIG. 15is a view showing a table of the video signals and the audio signals outputted to the display driving circuits208via the display interfaces206and terminals shown inFIG. 6. As is apparent fromFIG. 15, the display interfaces206of the respective mother-boards201-1,201-2, and201-3can be connected in common to the decoder layer substrate507using the connecting terminals T1. In addition, the table shows that the signals and the terminals do not change depending on the above respective systems.

FIG. 16is a view showing a table of respective detailed signals of MPEG-2TS signals from respective demodulators12-1,12-2, and12-3and terminals shown inFIG. 6. As is apparent fromFIG. 16, the respective demodulators12-1,12-2, and12-3can be connected in common to the decoder layer substrate507using the connecting terminals T2. In addition, the table shows that the signals and the terminals do not change depending on the above respective systems.

As described above, the connecting terminals T3connected to the respective CA modules14via the sockets13-1,13-2, and13-3can change electrical specifications on the decoder layer substrate507side in response to the types of the demodulation function layer substrates620-1,620-2, and620-3, or the CA modules14. In this case, the physical structures of the connecting terminals T3are the same. The physical structures of the other connecting terminals T1, T2, T4, and T5are the same in the respective demodulation function layer substrates620-1,620-2, and620-3. Therefore, the demodulation function layer substrates620-1,620-2, and620-3for use in each destination to each nation and region can be readily replaced for the decoder layer substrate507.

In addition, referring toFIG. 6, the CPU19is connected to the communication controller404in the network extension function layer substrate401, or the cable modem412in the CATV modem extension function layer substrate411via the bus19B thereof and the connecting terminals T6, and the CPU19performs communication with the controller404or412using signals such as an address signal and a data signal. Further, a bridge circuit (not shown) provided with, for example, a PCI bus is inserted on the bus19B side of the connecting terminal T6, and the network extension function layer substrate401or the CATV modem extension function layer substrate411may be connected to the PCI bus.

The network extension function layer substrate401is provided for laminating in the case of extending a network-related function in the circuit module1, and includes the communication controller404, the Ethernet interface402, and the hard disk drive interface403. The network-related function can be realized by combining the decoder layer substrate507with the network extension function layer substrate401. For example, the network-related function is provided for receiving a service such as a video on demand service which downloads content data from a communication server and listen to and view the downloaded contents by connecting the network extension function layer substrate401to a broadband network such as an Internet.

The Ethernet interface402is connected to a network via the connecting terminal T10and the solder ball9, and transmits and receives a communication packet. The Ethernet interface402receives, for example, content data composed of a plurality of packets that constitute the contents on the basis of the control of the communication controller404. The communication controller404stores the received content data in a hard disk drive (not shown) via the connecting terminal T10and the solder ball9by controlling the hard disk drive interface403. In displaying the content data, on the basis of an indication signal from the CPU19, the communication controller404reads the content data stored in the hard disk drive, and outputs the same to the CA interface circuit3and the decoder18via the connecting terminal T6and the bus19B, and then, decoding and display processing are executed by the control of the CPU19. Further, the content data may be directly outputted to and stored in the memory4via the CPU19without temporarily storing in the hard disk drive.

In addition, the CATV modem extension function layer substrate411is provided with the cable modem412, and is provided for connecting in the case of extending a CATV modem function in the circuit module1. The CATV modem function can be realized by laminating the decoder layer substrate507to the CATV modem extension function layer substrate411. The CATV modem function is a function which, for example, downloads application software data such as games from a server connected to a CATV head-end. The cable modem412is connected to the CATV head-end via T6and the solder ball9, and transmits and receives the communication packet. On the basis of an indication signal from the CPU19, the cable modem412receives software data composed of a plurality of packets that constitute application software, for example, and then, outputs the same data to the memory4via the connecting terminal T6, the bus19B, and the CPU19, then stores the same data. After that, the software is executed by the CPU19, and the decoding and display processing are executed.

Such network-related function and CATV modem function are generally demanded in the high-end digital television receiver which is offered to users who require a more sophisticated function. The configuration that combines the extension function layer substrate401or411with the decoder layer substrate507can be easily developed from a low-end television receiver whose function is not extended to a high-end television receiver whose function can be extended. In addition, since the function extension substrate401or411can be connected using the common connecting terminal T6, the extending function can be easily selected.

Further, since a nation and region where a service corresponding to the function extension is implemented, are known in advance, the CPU19reads out predetermined control voltages for identifying the demodulation function layer substrates620-1,620-2, and620-3, and can determine whether or not the function is extended for each destination. For example, when the service is implemented in Japan, the CPU19recognizes that the demodulation function layer substrate for Japan620-1is connected to the decoder layer substrate507, and can allow the connection of the function extension substrate. On the other hand, when the service is not implemented except in Japan, the CPU19recognizes that the demodulation function layer substrate for Japan620-1is not connected to the decoder layer substrate507, and the CPU19can prohibit any connection of the function extension substrate.

Referring toFIG. 6, signal lines24and25of the control voltages V1and V2inputted to the CPU19are pull-upped by being connected to a power supply terminal Vcc of a voltage supply of 3.3 V via pull-up resistors Rp1and Rp2, and connected to the demodulation function layer substrate620mounted with the demodulator12and the memory511, respectively. The control voltages V1and V2, each can be set to 0 that is the low level (corresponding to a voltage of 0 V) or 1 that is the high level (corresponding to a voltage of 3.3 V) at the demodulation function layer substrate620side by connecting to the grounding conductor (GND) or non-connecting (NC). The demodulation function layer substrate620can be set to four operation modes at the CPU19by a combination of the two levels of the control voltages V1and V2. That is, the CPU19can use the two control voltages V1and V2as a type-identifying data signal for identifying a type of the demodulation function layer substrate620. For example, the CPU19can identify by distinguishing the demodulation function layer substrate for Europe620-2using the DVB-T system, the demodulation function layer substrate for Japan620-1using the ISDB-T system, and the demodulation function layer substrate for America620-3using the ATSC system and the open cable system. In this case, since the demodulation function layer substrate620changes according to the type of the demodulator12, the type of the demodulation function layer substrate620changes in response to the system of the digital television broadcasting wave signal which the demodulator12receives and outputs. Therefore, the CPU19can identify the type of demodulation function layer substrate620and the broadcasting system of the digital television broadcasting wave signal inputted to the decoder18by using the two control voltages V1and V2. Similarly, it goes without saying that the type of the extension function layer substrate can be also identified.

FIG. 8is a view showing an example of a table of set values of the respective control voltages V1and V2shown inFIG. 6. Referring toFIG. 8, in the demodulation function layer substrate for Japan620-1(which is a substrate formed in conformity with the ISDB-T system), the control voltage V1is set to 0, and the control voltage V2is set to 0. In addition, in the demodulation function layer substrate620-3for use in the ATSC system and the open cable in North America (which is a substrate formed in conformity with the ATSC system and the open cable system), the control voltage V1is set to 1, and the control voltage V2is set to 0. Further, in the demodulation function layer substrate620-2for the DVB-T in Europe (which is a substrate formed in conformity with the DVB-T system), the control voltage V1is set to 0, and the control voltage V2is set to 1. Furthermore, when the control voltage V1is set to 1 and the control voltage V2is set to 1, the CPU19judges that the demodulation function layer substrate620is not connected. In this case, when the demodulation function layer substrate620is multi-layered and connected, the CPU19recognizes changes in the type of the demodulation function layer substrate620according to changes in the control voltages V1and V2, each changing from 1. After that, the CPU19reads the control voltages V1and V2, and sets a decoding system of the decoder LSI2and an operation mode of the interface processing of the CA interface circuit3in response to the levels of the control voltages.

In the above embodiment, the two control voltages V1and V2are used as the type-identifying data signals for identifying the type of the demodulation function layer substrate620and the broadcasting system of inputted digital television broadcasting wave signal. However, the number of the control voltages and the type and the number of the demodulation function layer substrate620are not limited. In addition, a memory for storing type-identifying data, which detects the type of the demodulation function layer substrate620and the broadcasting system of the inputted digital television broadcasting wave signal, is mounted on the demodulation function layer substrate620side, and the memory is connected to the CPU19, and then, the CPU19may identify the type of the demodulation function layer substrate620and the broadcasting system of the digital television broadcasting wave signal by reading the type-identifying data from the memory. That is, the type-identifying data for identifying the demodulation function layer substrate620and the broadcasting system of the inputted digital television broadcasting wave signal is stored outside the decoder layer substrate507. The CPU19accesses the memory or the like in which the type-identifying data is stored by connecting the demodulation function layer substrate620, and the CPU19identifies the type of the demodulation function layer substrate620and the broadcasting system of the inputted digital television broadcasting wave signals.

FIG. 7is a circuit diagram showing a configuration of the CA interface circuit3formed in the circuit module1shown inFIG. 1.

Description of symbols of respective buffers33to43shown inFIG. 7will be explained. Each of the symbols of the respective buffers33to43shows a circuit in which one or more buffers are connected in parallel. The number of the buffers connected in parallel is indicated by the number of signal lines which is shown on the signal lines shown inFIG. 6. In addition, in triangles of the respective buffers33to43, a vertex having the sharpest angle of a triangle shows the output side, the side facing the vertex shows the input side, and a horizontal direction of the triangle shows a traveling direction of a signal thereof. The power supply line is connected to the rectangular upper side including the triangle of each of the buffers33to43. On the other hand, the signal line of the enable control signal from the CPU19for performing on/off control of the output of each of the buffers33to43is connected to the rectangular lower side.

Among the power supply lines of the respective buffers33to43, the power supply lines of the buffers33,34,35,36,40,42, and43are connected to a power supply terminal31A of 3.3 V via a power supply terminal32indicated by ⋄. On the other hand, the power supply lines of the buffers37,38,39,40, and41connected to the card socket13are connected to an output terminal of a supply voltage changing-over switch31. In addition, a supply voltage of 3.3 V from the power supply terminal31A is supplied to the decoder LSI2. The power supply terminal31A of 3.3 V is connected to a contact “a” of the supply voltage changing-over switch31, and a power supply terminal31B of 5 V is connected to a contact “b” of the supply voltage changing-over switch31. Switching of the supply voltage changing-over switch31is controlled by an IO [15] signal that is a general-purpose IO of the CPU19. In an initial state, the supply voltage changing-over switch31is switched to the contact “a”. When the supply voltage changing-over switch31is switched to the contact “a,” the supply voltage of 3.3 V is supplied to the respective buffers37,38,39,40, and41. On the other hand, when the supply voltage changing-over switch31is switched to the contact “b,” a supply voltage of 5 V is supplied to the respective buffers37,38,39,40, and41. Further, the power supply terminals31A and31B are connected to the power supply unit203via the solder balls9of the circuit module1and the mother-board201. As to be described in detail later, the CPU19controls to output an appropriate supply voltage to the buffers37,38,39,40, and41in response to setting information from the CA module14connected to the card socket, or the mother-board101.

In the enable control signals D, E, F, H, J, and K of the respective buffers33to43, when the enable control signals are turned on, input signals inputted to the respective buffers33to43are directly outputted. On the other hand, when the enable control signals are turned off, the input signals inputted to the respective buffers33to43are not outputted. In this case, the output terminals thereof are put into a high-impedance state. That is, output signals of the respective buffers33to43are turned on/off by the enable control signals D, E, F, H, J, and K (referred to as “respective buffers33to43are turned on/off” hereinafter). The respective enable control signals are outputted from the CPU19via a general-purpose IO port of the CPU19. In this case, a connecting terminal name of the general-purpose IO port is shown by a bit number subsequent to a character string “IO_” inFIG. 7. That is, in the description and drawings, for example, a character string IO—[13:6] denotes signal bits from Bit6to Bit13of the IO port.

The connection with the connecting terminals of the card sockets13-2and13-3shown inFIG. 7will be described using connecting terminal names of input and output of a 16-bit PC card and pin allocation of a memory card specified in the non-patent document 4 in order to define the physical connection.

The buffer42is composed of three circuits, and has input terminals to which DRX, CRX, and CTX signals that are control signals from the demodulator12in conformity with the open cable system are inputted, and output terminals connected to the output terminals of the buffer37and address A [9, 8, 4] terminals of the card socket13. The on/off control of the buffer42is performed by the enable control signal H outputted from the CPU19. In addition, the supply voltage of 3.3 V is supplied to the buffer42. Further, the detail of the demodulator in conformity with the open cable system is disclosed in the non-patent document 4.

The buffer43is composed of three circuits, and has input terminals connected to A [7, 6, 5] terminals of the card socket13and the output terminal of the buffer37, and output terminals. Then QTX, ETX, and ITX signals that are control signals to the demodulator12in conformity with the open cable system are outputted from the output terminals. The on/off control of the buffer43is performed by the enable control signal H outputted from the CPU19. In addition, the supply voltage of 3.3 V is supplied to the buffer43. Further, when the demodulator12does not conform to the open cable system, both the buffer42and the buffer43are turned off.

The buffer33is composed of six circuits, and has input terminals connected to WAIT#, CD1#, CD2#, IREQ#, VS1#, and VS2# terminals that are control signal terminals from the card socket13, and output terminals connected to IO—[5:0] that are general-purpose IO ports of the CPU19. Further, a symbol # given at the last of the signal name denotes a low active signal. The on/off control of the buffer33is performed by the enable control signal K outputted from the CPU19. In addition, the supply voltage of 3.3 V is supplied to the buffer33.

The buffer34is made up of one circuit, and has an input terminal connected to a VS2# terminal of the card socket13, and an output terminal, and an output signal from the output terminal is outputted to the decoder18as a TS1_CLK signal that is a clock input signal in the MPEG-2_TS signal. The on/off control of the buffer34is performed by the enable control signal D outputted from the CPU19. In addition, the supply voltage of 3.3 V is supplied to the buffer34.

The buffer35is made up of one circuit, and has an input terminal connected to an A [14] terminal of the card socket13, and an output terminal, and an output signal from the output terminal is outputted to the decoder18as a TS1_CLK signal that is a clock input signal in the MPEG-2_TS signal. The on/off control of the buffer35is performed by the enable control signal E outputted from the CPU19. In addition, the supply voltage of 3.3 V is supplied to the buffer35.

The buffer36is composed of ten circuits, and has input terminals and output terminals, the input terminals of eight circuits of the ten circuits of the buffer36are connected to data D [15:8] terminals of the card socket13, and the output terminals thereof are connected to TS1_DATA [7:10] that are data input signals in the MPEG-2_TS signal in the decoder18. In addition, the input terminals of two circuits of the ten circuits of the buffer36are connected to SPKR# and STSCHG# terminals of the card socket13. The output signals from the output terminal thereof are outputted to the decoder18as a TS1_VALID signal and a TS1_SYNC signal that are an effective signal and a synchronizing signal in the MPEG-2_TS signal. The on/off control of the buffer36is performed by the enable control signal K outputted from the CPU19. In addition, the supply voltage of 3.3 V is supplied to the buffer36.

The buffer37is composed of six circuits, and has input terminals to which A [10:5] signals that are address signals outputted from the CPU19are inputted, and the output terminals connected to address A [9:4] terminals of the card socket13, a 3-bit output terminal of the buffer42, and a 3-bit input terminal of the buffer43. The on/off control of the buffer37is performed by the enable control signal F outputted from the CPU19. In Addition, a supply voltage outputted from the supply voltage changing-over switch31is supplied to the buffer37.

The buffer38is composed of eight circuits, and has input terminals to which A [14:11] signals and A [4:1] signals that are address signals outputted from the CPU19are inputted, and the output terminals connected to address A [13:10] and [3:0] terminals of the card socket13. The on/off control of the buffer38is performed by the enable control signal J outputted from the CPU19. In addition, the supply voltage outputted from the supply voltage changing-over switch31is supplied to the buffer38.

The buffer39is made up of one circuit, and has an input terminal to which A [15] signal that is an address signal outputted from the CPU19, and the output terminal connected to an address A [14] of the card socket13and a 1-bit input terminal of the buffer35. The on/off control of the buffer39is performed by the enable control signal F outputted from the CPU19. In addition, the supply voltage outputted from the supply voltage changing-over switch31is supplied to the buffer39.

In the connection of the above address signal, the reason why the address signal of the CPU19is shifted to the higher order by 1-bit in the address signal of the card socket13is because there is provided a system configuration which performs word access in accessing the PC card or the like connected to the card socket13from the CPU19. If the byte access configuration is provided, the address signal is connected without shifting to the higher order.

The buffer40is composed of eight circuits, and bidirectional buffers are configured by being connected in parallel. In this case, the buffer40includes (a) a buffer40A which performs buffer processing from the CPU19to the card socket13, and (b) a buffer40B which performs buffer processing from the card socket13to the CPU19. In addition, a signal direction is controlled by a directional control signal (not shown) from the CPU19. One input and output terminal of the buffer40is connected to data D [7:0] terminals of the card socket13, and the other input and output terminal of the buffer40is connected to data D [7:0] terminals through which the CPU19inputs and outputs. The on/off control of the output of the buffer40is performed by the enable control signal J outputted from the CPU19. Further, the supply voltage outputted from the supply voltage changing-over switch31is supplied to the buffer40A, and the supply voltage of 3.3 V from the power supply terminal31A is supplied to the buffer40B.

The buffer41is composed of eight circuits, and has input terminals to which IO [13:6] signals of general-purpose IO ports of the CPU19are inputted, and the output terminals connected to REG#, WE#, OE#, IOWR#, IORD#, CE1#, CE2#, and RESET terminals of the card socket13. The on/off control of the buffer41is performed by the enable control signal J outputted from the CPU19. In addition, the supply voltage outputted from the supply voltage changing-over switch31is supplied to the buffer41.

In the thus configured CA interface circuit3, the MPEG-2_TS signal outputted from the demodulator12is once inputted to the CA module14via the card socket13, descrambled by the CA module14, and then, outputted to the decoder18. The MPEG-2_TS signal such as a clear channel which is not scrambled may be outputted to the decoder18without via the CA module14. In addition, when the MPEG-2_TS signal is descrambled using the IC card without using the CA module14in a manner similar to that of the ISDB-T system, the MPEG-2_TS signal may be outputted to decoder18without via the CA module14. As for signal connection capable of selecting a path, VALID, SYNC, and CLK signals that are an effective signal, a synchronizing signal, and a clock signal among the MPEG-2_TS signals outputted from the demodulator12are outputted to A [28:18] terminals of the card socket13, and are also outputted to the decoder18as TS0_VALID, TS0_SYNC, and TS0_CLK that are the effective signal, the synchronizing signal, and the clock signal, which are control signals in the MPEG-2_TS signals. In addition, DATA [7:0] signals that are data output signals among the MPEG-2_TS signals outputted from the demodulator12are outputted to A [17:15] terminals of the card socket13, and are also outputted to the decoder18as TS0_DATA [7:0] signals that are the data input signals in the MPEG-2_TS signals. In this case, since the CPU19can recognize whether or not the MPEG-2_TS signal is the clear channel which is not scrambled, on the basis of program information or the like, the CPU19sets the decoder18to select any signal system of the TS0 signal system or the TS1 signal system in response to the recognition.

Further, referring toFIG. 7, since IOIS16#, INPACK#, and VPP terminal among the connecting terminals of the card socket13are not particularly related to the present invention, their description will be omitted. In addition, the supply voltage outputted from the supply voltage changing-over switch31is outputted to the power supply terminal Vcc in the card socket13. In addition, pull-up resistors are connected between the power supply terminal Vcc and CD1#, CD2#, VS1#, and VS2# terminals in the card socket13.

Further, the names of the signals connected to the decoder LSI2and the signals of VALID, SYNC, CLK, and DATA [7:0] connected to the demodulator12are merely shown as examples for the sake of explanation, and are not particularly specified by the standards or the like.

FIG. 9is a view showing a table of on/off states of the enable control signals D, E, F, H, J, and K supplied from the CPU19to the respective buffers33to43in the system shown inFIG. 1using the CA interface circuit3.FIG. 9shows setting of the respective enable control signals D, E, F, H, J, and K on the type of the demodulation function layer substrate620connected to the decoder layer substrate507, and the type and state of the CA module14inserted into the card socket13.FIG. 13shows setting of on/off of the buffers33to4by the enable control signals D, E, F, H, J, and K.

Referring toFIG. 9, when the demodulation function layer substrate for Japan620-1using the ISDB-T system is connected to the decoder layer substrate507, the buffers34to43to which the enable control signals D, E, F, H, and J other than the enable control signal K are applied, are controlled to be turned off. This is because the control is made such that the CA module14in conformity with the ISDB-T system is not inserted into the card sockets13-2and13-3, and the ISDB-T system is inserted into the IC card socket13-1. This is also because the control is to avoid that the output of the buffer is turned on when the CA module14to a different market is inserted into the card socket13. The CPU19can detect whether or not the CA module14is inserted by monitoring a signal level of the CD1# terminal or the CD2# terminal via the buffer33. Since the attribute of the card is written in the memory in the CA module14, the CPU19can recognize whether or not it is the CI card or the cable card after inserting the CA module14by reading the attribute via the buffer40. The circuit module1receives the signal showing the attributes of the CA module14from the mother-board201. This can judge the type of the CA module14inserted in the CPU19.

A specific example of control for the CA interface circuit3using the mother-board201of each system will be described with reference toFIG. 7.

The demodulation function layer substrate for Europe620-2using the DVB-T system is connected to the decoder layer substrate507, the buffers33and34are turned on, and the buffer35is turned off. At this time, the VS2# terminal of the card socket13is connected to a TS1_CLK signal terminal of the decoder18via the buffer34, and a clock signal is supplied. In addition, the buffer37is turned on, and the buffer42is turned off. At this time, CPU_A [10:5] terminals of the CPU19are connected to the A [9:4] terminals of the card socket13via the buffer37. In addition, the buffer39is turned on. At this time, a CPU_A [15] terminal of the CPU19is connected to the A [14] terminal of the card socket13via the buffer39. In addition, since the buffer40is turned on, an address signal and a data signal are outputted to the card socket13from the CPU19of the CPU19.

In addition, when the demodulation function layer substrate for America620-3using the ATSC system and the open cable system is connected to the decoder layer substrate507, and the cable card is inserted in the card socket13. In a memory state that is an initial state of the cable card, the buffer34and the buffer35are turned off, and a TS1_CLK terminal of the decoder18is not connected to the card socket13. In addition, the buffer37is turned on, and the buffer42is turned off. At this time, the CPU_A [10:5] terminals of the CPU19are connected to the A [9:4] terminals of the card socket13via the buffer37. In addition, the buffer39is turned on. Then, the CPU_A [15] terminals of the CPU19is connected to the A [14] terminal of the card socket13via the buffer39. Further, the buffer40is turned on. Accordingly, the address signal and the data signal are outputted to the card socket13from the CPU19of the CPU19.

Further, when the cable card is inserted in the card socket13, in a so-called cable card state in which the cable card is changed into an operational state, the buffer34is turned off, and the buffer35is turned on. At this time, the A [14] terminal of the card socket13is connected to the TS1_CLK terminal of the CPU19via the buffer35, and the clock signal from the card socket13is outputted to the decoder18as the TS1_CLK. In addition, the buffers37and39are turned off. At this time, the CPU_A [15] terminal of the CPU19is not connected to the A [14] terminal of the card socket13, and the CPU_A [10:5] terminals of the CPU19are not connected to the A [9:4] terminals of the card socket13. Further, the buffers42and43are turned on, and DRX, CRX, and CTX signals that are control signals from the demodulator12are outputted to the A [9, 8, 4] terminals of the card socket13via the buffer42. In addition, QTX, ETX, and ITX signals that are control signals from A [7:3] terminals of the card socket13are outputted to the demodulator12via the buffer43.

Next, power supply control supplied to the respective buffers33to43, and power supply control supplied to the power supply terminal Vcc of the card socket13, which are executed by the CPU19, will be described usingFIG. 10.FIG. 10shows a table of the supply voltage supplied to the respective buffers33to43and the PC card shown inFIG. 7in the system shown inFIG. 1using the CA interface circuit3shown inFIG. 7. That is,FIG. 10shows setting of the supply voltage changing-over switch31on the type of the demodulation function layer substrate620connected to the circuit module1and the type and state of the CA module14inserted into the card socket13. Further,FIG. 10shows the supply voltage outputted from the supply voltage changing-over switch31.

Referring toFIG. 10, when the demodulation function layer substrate for Japan620-1using the ISDB-T system is connected to the decoder layer substrate507, or when the CA module14is not inserted, the supply voltage of 3.3 V is supplied. In addition, when the demodulation function layer substrate for Europe620-2using the DVB-T system is connected to the decoder layer substrate507, the supply voltage of 5 V is supplied. When the demodulation function layer substrate for America620-3using the ATSC system and the open cable system is connected to the decoder layer substrate507, and the cable card is inserted in the card socket13, and the control is made to supply the supply voltage of 3.3 V.

FIG. 11is a flow chart showing processing for detecting insertion of the CA module executed according to the CPU19shown inFIG. 6.

Referring toFIG. 11, first of all, in step S1, the supply voltage of 3.3 V is outputted to the power supply terminal Vcc of each of the buffers37to41and the card sockets13-2and13-3by switching the supply voltage changing-over switch31to the contact “a.” After that, in step S2, the enable control signals D, E, F, H, and J that designate turning-off are outputted to the buffers34,35, (37,39), (42,43), and (38,40,41), respectively, and the enable control signal K that designates turning-on is outputted to each of the buffers (33,36). Then, in step S3, it is judged whether or not a low level signal has been detected at the CD1# terminal or the CD2# terminal of the card socket13-2and13-3, and then, the process in step S3is repeated till this result becomes YES. When the result is YES, in step S4, the insertion of the CA module14is recognized, and signal levels at the VS1# terminal of the card sockets13-2and13-3are read out. In step S5, it is judged whether or not the low level signal has been detected at the VS1# terminal of the card sockets13-2and13-3. If YES, the process goes to step S8. At the same time, if NO, the process goes to step S6.

In step S6, an insertion state of the CI card is recognized, and the supply voltage of 5 V is outputted to the power supply terminal Vcc of each of the buffers37to41and the card sockets13-2and13-3by switching the supply voltage changing-over switch31to the contact “b.” Further, in step S7, the enable control signals D, F, and J that designate turning-on are outputted to the buffers34, (37,39) and (38,40,41), respectively, and then, the processing is ended.

In step S8, it is recognized that the cable card is in an initial state: and in step S9, the enable control signals F and J that designate turning-on are outputted to the buffers (37,39), and (38,40,41), respectively. After that, in step S10, processing of “personality change” that changes the cable card from the initial state to an operational state is executed. Then in step S11, it is recognized that the cable card is in the operational state, the enable control signal F that designates turning-off is outputted to each of the buffers (37,39), the enable control signals E and H that designate turning-on are outputted to the buffers35and (42,43), respectively, and the processing is ended.

By executing the above processing for detecting insertion of the CA module, the types of the CA modules14inserted to the card sockets13-2and13-3can be detected, the appropriate enable control signals D, E, F, H, J, and K can be set, and the supply voltages can be set. Further, specifications of the CD1#, CD2#, and VS1# terminals of the card sockets13-2and13-3are disclosed in the non-patent document 4.

As described above, according to the system configuration and the buffer control in the CA interface circuit3according to the present embodiment, when the CI card or the cable card is inserted or not inserted in the card sockets13-2or13-3, the connection between the decoder LSI2and the card socket13-2or13-3, and the supply voltage level in the connection can be suitably set.

The thus configured system configuration and buffer control in the CA interface circuit3according to the first embodiment can suitably set electrical specifications between the decoder LSI2and the card socket13, for example, the connection and the voltage level in the connection, when the CI card or the cable card is not inserted in the card socket13. In addition, even when any demodulation function layer substrate620of the demodulation function layer substrate for Japan620-1using an ISDB-T system, the demodulation function layer substrate for Europe620-2using the DVB-T system, and the demodulation function layer substrate for America620-3using the ATSC system and the open cable system is connected to the decoder layer substrate507, the electrical specifications between the decoder LSI2and the card socket13, for example, the connection and the voltage level in the connection can be suitably set. In addition, in the first embodiment, as for a user's using method of the digital television receiver, control of the CPU19can be simplified by limiting the digital television receiver to preliminarily turn off when the CI card or the cable card is inserted into or removed from the card sockets13-2and13-3. Concretely speaking, the setting control of the electrical specifications between the decoder LSI2and the card socket13when the CI card or the cable card is inserted or not inserted in the card socket13is omitted. Then the setting control of the electrical specifications between the decoder LSI2and the card socket13may be performed by only the type of the demodulation function layer substrate620. This is possible because the CA module used for each nation and region is specified and determined by the broadcasting system.

Further, control of the decoder18by the CPU19will be described hereinafter. When the demodulation function layer substrate for Japan620-1using the ISDB-T system is connected to the decoder layer substrate507, conversion to a video signal and an audio signal is performed by executing decoding processing using a decoding method in conformity with the ISDB-T system on the MPEG-2_TS signal inputted from the demodulator12. In addition, when the demodulation function layer substrate for Europe620-2using the DVB-T system is connected to the decoder layer substrate507, conversion to a video signal and an audio signal is performed by executing decoding processing using a decoding method in conformity with the DVB-T system on the MPEG-2_TS signal inputted from the demodulator12. Further, when the demodulation function layer substrate for America620-3using the ATSC system and the open cable system is connected to the decoder layer substrate507, conversion to a video signal and an audio signal is performed by executing decoding processing using a decoding method in conformity with the ATSC system on the MPEG-2_TS signal inputted from the demodulator12.

FIG. 17is a block diagram showing a system configuration including a circuit module1and mother-boards for countries201-1,201-2, and201-3connected to the circuit module1according to a modified embodiment of the first embodiment of the present invention. In a third embodiment, in the demodulation function layer substrates for countries620-1,620-2, and620-3, type-identifying data signals for setting types of the demodulation function layer substrates620-1,620-2, and620-3are prepared according to whether or not the respective signal lines24and25of the control voltages V1and V2are connected or are not connected (NC) to the grounding conductor (GND). However, the present invention is not limited to this, and as shown inFIG. 17, it may be configured such that EEPROMs209-1,209-2, and209-3that are nonvolatile memories for storing setting data of control voltages V1and V2are mounted in demodulation function layer substrates620-1,620-2, and620-3, a CPU19reads type-identifying data from the EEPROM209-1,209-2, and209-3. Accordingly, a type-identifying data signal is generated, and types of the demodulation function layer substrates620-1,620-2, and620-3are detected. In addition, storing means for storing setting data of the control voltages V1and V2is not any EEPROM, and a flash memory, a resister, or the like may be used.

As described above, according to the circuit module1of the present embodiment, a decoder layer substrate507mounted with a decoder LSI2and a CA interface circuit3, the demodulation function layer substrate620mounted with a demodulator12, and an extension function layer substrate401mounted with an extension function LSI. The operation can be guaranteed by physically and electrically connecting a single piece of the circuit module1to a tuner612and a CA module14in the DVB-T system, the ISDB-T system, the ATSC system, and the open cable system, and compressed video signals and audio signals in the DVB-T system, the ISDB-T system, the ATSC system, and the open cable system can be decoded.

In addition, the circuit module1can be commercialized in small size and at lightweight to a semiconductor chip size or an LSI package size. In addition, the circuit module1can commercialize a television set of each display device by also connecting to mother-boards of a liquid crystal display, a plasma display, a CRT display, and a set-top box. Therefore, the circuit module1according to the present embodiment is used, and the mother-board201mounted with the tuner612of each nation and region, card socket13-2,13-3or an IC card socket13-1for the CA module14of each market, and an interface206for each display device is designed and connected. Accordingly, the manufacturers of the digital television receiver can easily commercialize digital television receivers provided with each display device to each nation, region, and market at low cost, in small size, and at lightweight as compared with the prior art.

Further, the extension function layer substrate401can be provided with the network-related function, and also provided with the CATV modem function. Therefore, the circuit module1according to the present embodiment is used, and the mother-board201mounted with the tuner612of each nation and region, the card socket13-2,13-3or the IC card socket13-1for the CA module14of each market, and the interface206for each display device is designed and connected. Accordingly, the manufacturers of the digital television receiver can easily commercialize digital television receivers from low-end to high-end to each region and market at low cost, in small size, and at lightweight as compared with the prior art.

Second Embodiment

FIG. 18is a partially exploded mounting view of a television receiver upon mounting a circuit module311on a mother-board313and upon mounting the mother-board313in a receiver housing204in a television receiver according to a second embodiment of the present invention. In addition,FIG. 19is a top view of the circuit module311, andFIG. 20is a back side view of the circuit module311. Further,FIG. 21is an exploded perspective view showing a multi-layer structure of the circuit module311.FIG. 22is a sectional view showing the multi-layer structure of the circuit module311.FIG. 23is a block diagram showing a system configuration including the circuit module311and mother-boards for countries313-1,313-2, and313-3connected to the circuit module311according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

The television set according to the second embodiment will be described hereinafter with reference toFIG. 18toFIG. 23. InFIG. 18toFIG. 23, the same reference numerals are given to those similar to components in the first embodiment, and their detail description will be omitted.

Referring toFIG. 18, the circuit module311for a television receiver is mounted in the mother-board313where a connector314for inputting a digital television broadcasting wave signal, a socket205for connecting a CA module of each market, and a display interface206for outputting a digital audio signal or an analog audio signal and a digital video signal are mounted. In this case, the circuit module311is mounted at a position1A of the mother-board313made of a dielectric substrate, and the mother-board313is mounted at a position201A of the receiver housing204.

The mother-board313is prepared for each nation, region, and market, and then, it makes possible to commercialize a television receiver to each nation, region, and market by connecting to the circuit module311. In addition, the mother-board313is prepared for each display device, and accordingly, a television set provided with each display device can be commercialized. Similarly, the television set provided with each display device for each nation, region, and market can be commercialized.

Referring toFIG. 19, the circuit components mounted on the component arrangement surface that is the upper surface of the circuit module311include a silicon tuner301which inputs a television broadcasting wave signal of each nation and region, and performs frequency conversion to an intermediate frequency signal; the VCXO5that is a circuit component for analog signal processing, which generates a clock of the decoder LSI2, and outputs the same; the ROM6which stores data such as a program code for the CPU in the decoder LSI2; an oscillation crystal306for generating a clock of an Ethernet interface402, and for outputting the same clock, and a plurality of capacitors7connected to a power supply (not shown) for each circuit component. Further, the silicon tuner301includes a digital signal processor (referred to as a DSP hereinafter) that performs frequency conversion processing or the like in a silicon chip formed on a silicon substrate, and a control program for controlling the DSP is stored in an EEPROM and is executed. Accordingly, receiving processing of a radio analog signal such as a television broadcasting wave signal can be performed. In this case, the silicon tuner301which has been recently developed is known as a tuner in which a receiver circuit that has been configured by a hitherto known analog circuit is configured by a silicon chip including an analog to digital conversion circuit and a digital circuit in the semiconductor chip. In the analog circuit, receiving specifications are determined by replacing a coil and a capacitor on the television broadcasting wave signal that is an analog signal. In the digital circuit, the receiving specifications are determined by an arithmetic circuit in the semiconductor chip after performing digital conversion. Therefore, even in a single semiconductor chip, a television broadcasting wave signal of each nation and region can be received.

Referring toFIG. 20, the circuit components mounted on the soldering surface that is the back side of the circuit module311include a plurality of capacitors10connected between a power supply terminal of the decoder LSI2and the grounding conductor, and a plurality of solder balls9that are external terminals of the circuit module311, for connecting signal lines and power supply lines upon mounting the circuit module311on the mother-board313. The upper surface and the back side of the circuit module311are mainly mounted with general-purpose circuit components.

A plurality of lands302are formed at each substrate end circumference portion on the upper surface and the back side of the circuit module311as shown inFIGS. 19 and 20. In this case, each land302is made of a conductive metal thin film, and each land302has a smaller diameter than a diameter of the solder ball9and formed in high density so that an arrangement interval thereof is small. In addition, each land302is characterized to be formed on the outer side than the solder ball9on the substrate of the circuit module311. Among the plurality of lands302, the lands302located at the same coordinate on the upper surface and the back side are connected with each other and electrically connected using a through hole521, a via523, or a via307(to be described later).

Referring toFIG. 21, the circuit module311is composed of a plurality of printed circuit board layers701,702,708,712a,719a,710-1,711,706, and707having a multi-layer structure, inter-substrate layers703,704,714, and705, and circuit components mounted on those layers. As shown inFIG. 21, the circuit module311includes the following:

(a) the signal wiring layer substrate701on the upper surface side where the circuit components shown inFIG. 19are mounted;

(b) the signal wiring layer substrate702;

(c) the extension function layer substrate708for extending the network function, and is mounted with the Ethernet interface402, the hard disk drive interface403, and the communication controller404;

(d) the signal wiring layer substrate709;

(e) the HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) extension function layer substrate712afor extending the interface mounted with an HDMI chip412ahaving an HDMI function that is an input and output interface function for a digital video signal and an audio signal mainly for home electric appliances and AV equipment;

(f) the signal wiring layer substrate719a;

(g) the demodulation function layer substrate710-1for the demodulation function for Japan mounted with the demodulator for Japan12-1and the memory for a demodulator511;

(h) the signal wiring layer substrate711;

(i) the decoder layer substrate706for the decode function mounted with the CA interface circuit3that is the common interface directly connectable to the decoder LSI2for performing decode processing corresponding to the compression system in digital television broadcasting of each nation and region, the memory304that is a working memory of the decoder LSI2, and the CA module at each market; and

(j) the signal wiring layer substrate707;

and the circuit module311has a multi-layered structure multi-layered in the thickness direction of the respective substrates so that the respective substrates substantially become parallel to each other.

In this case, the Ethernet interface402, the hard disk drive interface403, the communication controller404, the HDMI chip412a, the demodulator for Japan12-1, the memory for the demodulator511, the decoder LSI2, the memory304, and the CA interface circuit3are mounted on the inside layer, and then, the configuration is of a semiconductor bare chip. Therefore, it is possible to mount on the substrate by wire bonding and flip chip bonding.

The inter-substrate layer703is multi-layered between the signal wiring layer substrate702and the extension function layer substrate708, the inter-substrate layer704is multi-layered between the signal wiring layer substrate709and the extension function layer substrate712a, the inter-substrate layer714is multi-layered between the signal wiring layer substrate719aand the demodulation function layer substrate710-1, and the inter-substrate layer705is multi-layered between the signal wiring layer substrate711and the decoder layer substrate706. The inter-substrate layers703,704,714, and705are substrates for transmitting signals between the upper and lower substrates, and for embedding the circuit components mounted on the upper and lower substrates inside. The material thereof can be served as a substrate for use in an adhesive sheet member and a printed circuit board. The inter-substrate layers703,704,714, and705are prepared with through holes for forming vias307(to be described later) for transmitting signals between respective substrates, and cutout portions conforming to shapes of the circuit components to be embedded. The via307is formed by filling metal material such as conductive gold, copper, silver, or the like in the through hole. The via307is formed for electrically connecting between the lands arranged relatively in common in the upper and lower substrates of the inter-substrate layer703. Therefore, the inter-substrate layer703is not required to prepare a wiring pattern on the layer surface, and can be realized with a simple structure and material.

Since the silicon tuner301is further mounted, the thus formed configuration can further improve a mounting rate of the circuit components as compared with the first embodiment. Therefore, the digital broadcast receiver can further be reduced in size by using the circuit module311. In addition, since the HDMI chip412ais also mounted, the other interface can further be extended in function. Further, any connection between respective substrates through the bump or the ball is not required as compared with the first embodiment. Therefore, any process for forming the bump and any reflow process for connecting the solder ball are not required, and then, the manufacturing process can be simplified. In addition, the via usually used in a printed circuit board can be directly connected between the substrates. Therefore, a printed circuit board with a multi-layer structure incorporated with a bare chip can be realized.

Next, the multi-layered structure of the circuit module311will be described usingFIG. 22. The signal wiring layer substrates701and702are glued together by a predetermined adhesive, and general-purpose circuit components such as the VCXO5, the capacitor7, and the oscillation crystal306are mounted on the signal wiring layer substrate701. In this case, the circuit components shown inFIG. 19are mounted. The wiring between the upper surface of the signal wiring layer substrate701and the upper surface of the signal wiring layer substrate702is connected through the via523. The wiring between the upper surface of the signal wiring layer substrate701and the back side of the signal wiring layer substrate702is connected through the through hole521. Referring toFIG. 22, actually, there are many vias523and through holes521. In this case, the detailed description of each via and through hole is omitted.

Referring toFIG. 22, only nine vias307are shown between the signal wiring layer substrate702and the extension function layer substrate708. Then there are actually many vias in response to the land302. The detailed description of each via307will be omitted. In this case, the substrates701and708are printed circuit boards having a thickness of several hundred μm, and the inter-substrate layer703has a thickness from several ten μm to several hundred μm. Therefore, a circuit component such as a bare chip mounted on the inside layer is required to be mounted by making thinner than the thickness of the inter-substrate layer.

The signal wiring layer substrates701and702are glued together using the predetermined adhesive, and the signal wiring layer substrate702and the extension function layer substrate708are physically connected with the inter-substrate layer703sandwiched therebetween. In this case, the signal wiring layer substrate702and the extension function layer substrate708are electrically connected through the plurality of vias307formed in the inter-substrate layer703. The extension function layer substrate708and the signal wiring layer substrate709are glued together using the predetermined adhesive, and the signal wiring layer substrate709and the extension function layer substrate712aare physically connected with the inter-substrate layer704sandwiched therebetween. In this case, the signal wiring layer substrate709and the extension function layer substrate712aare electrically connected through the plurality of vias307formed in the inter-substrate layer704. The extension function layer substrate712aand the signal wiring layer substrate719aare glued together using the predetermined adhesive, and the signal wiring layer substrate719aand the demodulation function layer substrate710-1are physically connected with the inter-substrate layer714sandwiched therebetween. In this case, the signal wiring layer substrate719aand the demodulation function layer substrate710-1are electrically connected through the plurality of vias307formed in the inter-substrate layer714. The decoder layer substrate706and the signal wiring layer substrate707are glued together using the predetermined adhesive, and the signal wiring layer substrate711and the decoder layer substrate706are physically connected with the inter-substrate layer705sandwiched therebetween. In this case, the signal wiring layer substrate711and the decoder layer substrate706are electrically connected through the plurality of vias307formed in the inter-substrate layer705. A plurality of solder balls9are mounted on the back side of the wiring layer substrate707.

The physical arrangements and transmitting electrical signal types of the land321and the via307between the signal wiring layer substrate702and the extension function layer substrate708, the physical arrangements and transmitting electrical signal types of the land321and the via307between the signal wiring layer substrate709and the extension function layer substrate712a, and the physical arrangements and transmitting electrical signal types of the via307between the signal wiring layer substrate719aand the demodulation function layer substrate710-1are determined by relatively in common and preliminarily defining respective types of the extension function layer substrates708and712a, and the signal wiring layer substrates709and719a. The physical arrangements and transmitting electrical signal types of the land321and the via307between the signal wiring layer substrate711and the decoder layer substrate706are determined by relatively in common and preliminarily defining respective types of the demodulation function layer substrate710-1and the signal wiring layer substrate711.

The connecting terminals T6to T10according to the first embodiment are made of the bump or the solder ball. In the second embodiment, connecting terminals T11to T13are made of the land321or the via307. As shown inFIG. 22, in addition to the connecting terminals T6to T10of the first embodiment, the connecting terminals T11to T13are arranged as follows:

(a) the connecting terminal T11made of the land or the via connectable to the oscillation crystal306, and the Ethernet interface402or the HDMI chip412ais arranged by being formed between respective substrates from the signal wiring layer substrate701, and from the extension function layer substrate708to the extension function layer substrate712ain order to transmit a clock signal for the Ethernet interface402or the HDMI chip412a;

(b) the connecting terminals T12made of the land, the via, or the solder ball9connectable to the silicon tuner301and the connector314mounted on the main substrate313are arranged by being formed between respective substrates from the signal wiring layer substrate701to the main substrate313in order to transmit a television broadcasting wave signal that is an analog signal;

(c) the connecting terminals T13made of the land or the via are connected to the grounding conductor, and are arranged by being formed between respective substrates from the signal wiring layer substrate701to the main substrate313; and

(d) the connecting terminals T8and T11made of the bump are arranged on the inner side than the other connecting terminals (or bumps). Therefore, regarding the connecting clock signals especially required for electrical characteristics, the wiring distances between the circuit components can be particularly shortened. The transmission delay time of the clock signal is shortened, and signal transmission performance can be improved.

In this case, the circuit module311is provided with the lands302on the upper surface or the back side of the substrate thereof, and T1to T12that are the connecting terminals among incorporated substrates can be electrically connected to the lands302on the upper surface or the back side using the via307, the via523, or the through hole521. In addition, electrical connection can be made from the lands302on the upper surface to the lands302on the back side including the connecting terminals among the incorporated substrates.

In addition, for example, as shown in the left center portion inFIG. 19, the connecting terminals T13are arranged by being formed so as to surround the connecting terminal T12. Therefore, the television broadcasting wave signal that is an analog signal which transmits the connecting terminal T12can be electrically separated from the MPEG-TS signal of a digital signal, and then, the electrical interference of the digital signal against the analog signal can be suppressed. Further, for example, as shown in the right center portion inFIG. 19, sixteen connecting terminals T13are arranged by being formed so as to surround eight connecting terminals T10. Therefore, signal of content data which transmit the connecting terminals T10can be transmitted in a substantially coaxial cable system including the connecting terminals T13made of the grounding conductor. This can suppress interference from the other signal and noise to the transmission of the content data.

Therefore, a group of the lands and the vias, which have been served as only interlayer connection in the circuit module related to the prior art, can be dealt with as connector terminals of the interface for replacing the layers. As a result, selection of the extending function can be selected by replacing the layers. Therefore, as for substrate sets of the extension function layer substrate708or712aand the signal wiring layer substrate709or719a, the substrate sets related to a plurality of types of the extension functions are prepared respectively, and then, lamination or multi-layering can be made by selecting one substrate set and replacing the same. In addition, as for substrate sets of the demodulation function layer substrate710-1and the signal wiring layer substrate711, the substrate sets of a plurality of types of the demodulators are prepared respectively, and then, lamination or multi-layering can be made by selecting and replacing the same.

Further, the oscillation crystal306having a height of several mm is mounted on the signal wiring layer substrate701, and is connected to the extension function layer wiring substrate708using T11without mounting on the extension function layer wiring substrate708, and without embedding into the inter-substrate layer703, and then, the thickness of the inter-substrate layer703can be thin. In addition, the signal wiring layer substrate701and the signal wiring layer substrate702are standardized for each nation and region, and a plurality of types of the demodulation function layer substrates710-1and the signal wiring layer substrate711are prepared for each nation and region, and then, lamination or multi-layering can be made by the replacing the same. In addition, a pitch of a usual connector for use in the connection between respective substrates is several mm. On the other hand, a pitch of the via is approximately several ten μm to several hundred μm. Therefore, the via is used as a connector terminal. Accordingly, reduction in size can be remarkably achieved as compared with the case where the usual connector for use in the connection between the substrates is used. In addition, each of the decoder layer substrate706and the signal wiring layer substrate707, the extension function layer substrate708and712aand the signal wiring layer substrate709and719a, and the demodulation function layer substrate710-1and the signal wiring layer substrate711serves as a single substrate, respectively. Therefore, the operation can be also confirmed by each single piece.

In addition, as shown inFIG. 22, the decoder LSI2and the working memory304are closely arranged on the same substrate. Therefore, the wiring between the decoder LSI2and the working memory304is shortened. When each of the decoder LSI2and the working memory304is a bare chip, the wiring between the chips can be more shortened. Therefore, since an inductor component and a stray capacitance component in the wiring can be suppressed, and electrical characteristics are improved. The transmission delay time of the electrical signal between the decoder LSI2and the working memory304is shortened, and signal transmission performance can be improved. Further, the false operation due to waveform distortion generated by an electrical signal reflection or the like, the interference on the tuner due to radiation noise, and the like can be suppressed.

In addition, the demodulator12-1is arranged at roughly the center of the demodulation function layer substrate710-1. The wiring between the decoder LSI2and the demodulator12-1has the length substantially equal to the thickness of two substrates and one inter-substrate layer, and then, the wiring length can be remarkably shortened. Therefore, since an inductor component and a stray capacitance component in the wiring can be suppressed, and electrical characteristics of the wiring are improved. The transmission delay time of the electrical signal between the decoder LSI2and the demodulator12-1is shortened, and signal transmission performance can be improved. Further, the false operation due to waveform distortion generated by an electrical signal reflection or the like, the interference on the silicon tuner301due to radiation noise, and the like can be suppressed.

In addition, the communication controller404is arranged at roughly the center of the extension function layer substrate708. The wiring between the decoder LSI2and the communication controller404has the length substantially equal to the thickness of six substrates and three inter-substrate layers, and then, the wiring length can be remarkably shortened. Therefore, since an inductor component and a stray capacitance component in the wiring can be suppressed, and electrical characteristics of the wiring are improved. The transmission delay time of the electrical signal between the decoder LSI2and the communication controller404is shortened, and signal transmission performance can be improved. Further, the false operation due to waveform distortion generated by an electrical signal reflection or the like, the interference on the silicon tuner301due to radiation noise, and the like can be suppressed. Further, the HDMI chip412ais arranged at roughly the center of the HDMI extension function layer substrate712a. The wiring between the decoder LSI2and the HDMI chip412ahas the length substantially equal to the thickness of four substrates and two inter-substrate layers, and then, the wiring length can be remarkably shortened. Therefore, since an inductor component and a stray capacitance component in the wiring can be suppressed, and electrical characteristics of the wiring are improved. The transmission delay time of the electrical signal between the decoder LSI2and the HDMI chip412ais shortened, and signal transmission performance can be improved. Further, the false operation due to waveform distortion generated by an electrical signal reflection or the like, the interference on the silicon tuner301due to radiation noise, and the like can be suppressed.

FIG. 23is a block diagram showing a system configuration including the circuit module311and the mother-board313shown inFIG. 18. The system configuration shown inFIG. 23, mainly different points from the first embodiment will be described hereinafter.

Referring toFIG. 23, the mother-boards313-1,313-2, and313-3(collectively given reference numeral313hereinafter) are composed of the connectors314connected to antennas12A, card sockets13-1,13-2, and13-3(collectively given reference numeral13hereinafter) into which CA modules14are inserted, and the display interfaces206.

In addition, the circuit module311includes the decoder layer substrate706mounted with the decoder LSI2provided with the decoder18and the CPU19, a plurality of memories304, the CA interface circuit3, and an IC card interface22; the wiring layer substrate701mounted with the silicon tuner301, the VCXO5, the ROM6, and the oscillation crystal306; demodulation function layer substrates710-1,710-2, and710-3(collectively given reference numeral710hereinafter) mounted with demodulators12-1,12-2, and12-3(collectively given reference numeral12hereinafter); the network extension function layer substrate708; and the HDMI extension function layer substrate712a.

In this case, the VCXO5and the memory304are connected to the decoder LSI2, and the oscillation crystal306is connected to the Ethernet interface402or the HDMI chip412avia the connecting terminal T11. In addition, the CPU19, the CA interface circuit3, the ROM6, and the IC card interface22are connected via a bus19B. In addition, the HDMI chip412aor the communication controller404, and the decoder18are connected via the bus19B. That is, a digital video signal and an audio signal that are the content data from the HDMI chip412aor the communication controller404can be inputted to the decoder18. Further, description of the substrate configuration of the circuit module311shown inFIG. 23is the same as that of the substrate configuration shown inFIGS. 21 and 22. In this case, some of the substrates are not shown in the drawing.

The silicon tuner301of the wiring layer substrate701receives a digital television broadcasting wave from the antenna12A via the connector314, frequency converts to a predetermined intermediate frequency signal, and outputs the same to the demodulator12in the demodulation function layer substrate710. The demodulator12demodulates the above frequency-converted intermediate frequency signal into the MPEG-2_TS signal using the connected memory511, and outputs the same signal to the CA interface circuit3.

In addition,FIG. 23shows the circuit module311, three types of the mother-boards313-1,313-2, and313-3to each nation and region, and to each display device connected to the circuit module311, the network extension function layer substrate708, and the HDMI extension function layer substrate712a. In addition, the circuit module311is composed of the signal line wiring substrate701multi-layered on the decoder layer substrate706, any one of three types of the demodulation function layer substrates710-1,710-2, and710-3, the network extension function layer substrate708, and the HDMI extension function layer substrate712a(further, in the present embodiment, at least one sheet of two sheets of the extension function layer substrates708and712acan be mounted). Further, the circuit module311is characterized in that the circuit module311can be connected to any one of the three types of the mother-boards313-1,313-2, and313-3. In addition, the decoder layer substrate706is characterized in that the decoder layer substrate706can be multi-layered to any one of the three types of the demodulation function layer substrates710-1,710-2, and710-3. In addition, the decoder layer substrate706is characterized in that the decoder layer substrate706can be multi-layered to any one, or both, of the two types of the network extension function layer substrate708and the HDMI extension function layer substrate712a.

According to the thus configured circuit module311, the operation can be guaranteed by physically and electrically connecting a single piece of the circuit module311to the digital television broadcasting wave signals and the CA modules in the DVB-T system, the ISDB-T system, the ATSC system, and the open cable system, and compressed video signals and audio signals in the DVB-T system, the ISDB-T system, the ATSC system, and the open cable system can be decoded. In addition, the circuit module311can be commercialized in small size and at lightweight to a semiconductor chip size or an LSI package size. In addition, the circuit module311is also connected to a mother-board of a liquid crystal display, a plasma display, a CRT display, and a set-top box, and then, the circuit module311can select the optimum extension function for each display device and multi-layer or laminate the same. That is, the network function can be extended by laminating the network extension function layer substrate708for the liquid crystal display, and the interface function can be extended by laminating the HDMI extension function layer substrate712afor the plasma display. Further, an image quality improvement function can be considered as other extension function.

FIG. 36is a block diagram of the circuit module shown inFIG. 23, provided with an image quality improvement function layer substrate according to a modified embodiment of the circuit module311of the present invention. There are many cases in which a required image quality improvement function is generally different in response to characteristics of the display device. For example, a function for correcting movement of images is required in the case of the liquid crystal display. Then in the case of the plasma display, a function for extending image gradation characteristic is required. The circuit module311according to the present modified embodiment is characterized in that, in place of the network extension function layer substrate708and the HDMI extension function layer substrate712a, an extension function layer substrate922which mounts an image quality improvement function LSI921for correcting movement of images on the liquid crystal display, an extension function layer substrate925which mounts a wiring layer substrate923and an image quality improvement function LSI924for extending image gradation characteristic, and a wiring layer substrate926are respectively prepared. A substrate set is replaced and multi-layered for the liquid crystal display or the plasma display, and then, the function is extended.

Referring toFIG. 36, the image quality improvement function LSI921incorporates a memory, an image signal is inputted from the decoder18, the difference between frames is calculated, and an image movement component is detected. Further, in response to the detected result, the image quality improvement function LSI921generates a new frame from the previous and subsequent frames, and performs processing which outputs an image signal in which the new frame is inserted between the frames to the decoder18. In addition, the image quality improvement function LSI924incorporates a memory, an image signal is inputted from the decoder18, and a histogram in the frame is made. Further, in response to the detected result, the image quality improvement function LSI924extends a gradation component with high distribution density, and performs processing which outputs the resultant image signal to the decoder18. In this case, the image quality improvement function LSI921and the image quality improvement function LSI924may be a configuration of a bare chip. That is, the extension function layer substrate922which mounts the image quality improvement function LSI921can be multi-layered for the liquid crystal display, and the extension function layer substrate925which mounts the image quality improvement function LSI924for extending image gradation characteristic can be multi-layered for the plasma display. In such cases, a digital image signal inputted and outputted between the image quality improvement function LSI921or the image quality improvement function LSI924, and the decoder18is transmitted using the connecting terminal T6. Therefore, the circuit module311according to the present modified embodiment is used, and the mother-board313mounted with the interface206of each display device is designed and connected, and then, the manufacturers of the digital television receiver can easily commercialize digital television receivers provided with the optimum image quality improvement function for each display device at low cost, in small size, and at lightweight as compared with the prior art.

Therefore, the circuit module311according to the present embodiment is used, and the mother-board313mounted with the connector314for connecting the television broadcasting wave signal, the card socket13-2,13-3or the IC card socket13-1for the CA module14of each market, and the interface206for each display device is designed, and then, the manufacturers of the digital television receiver can easily commercialize digital television receivers provided with each display device to each nation, region and market at low cost, in small size, and at lightweight as compared with the prior art.

Third Embodiment

FIG. 24is a top view of a circuit module312for use in a television set according to a third embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 25is a back side view of the circuit module312shown inFIG. 24.FIG. 26is an exploded perspective view showing a multi-layer structure of the circuit module312shown inFIG. 24.FIG. 27is a sectional view showing the multi-layer structure of the circuit module312shown inFIG. 24.FIG. 28is a sectional view showing a multi-layer structure according to a modified embodiment of the circuit module312shown inFIG. 24.FIG. 29is a block diagram showing a system configuration including the circuit module312and mother-boards for countries313-1,313-2, and313-3connected to the circuit module312according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

The television set according to the third embodiment will be described hereinafter with reference toFIG. 24toFIG. 29. InFIG. 24toFIG. 29, the same reference numerals are given to those similar to components in the first and the second embodiments, and their detail description will be omitted.

Referring toFIG. 24, circuit components mounted on the component arrangement surface that is the upper surface of the circuit module312include a tuner for Japan612-1, a demodulator305-1, a VCXO5that is a circuit component for analog signal processing which generates a clock of a decoder LSI2and outputs the same, a ROM6for storing data such as a program code for a CPU in the decoder LSI2, and a capacitor7connected to a power supply (not shown) for each circuit component. The demodulator305-1is a more integrated demodulator incorporating a memory511as compared with the demodulator12-1.

Referring toFIG. 25, circuit components mounted on the soldering surface that is the back side of the circuit module312include a plurality of capacitors10connected between the power supply of the decoder LSI2and the grounding conductor. A plurality of solder balls9, which are external terminals of the circuit module312, and connect the signal lines and power supply lines upon mounting the circuit module312on the mother-board313. The upper surface and the back side of the circuit module312are mainly mounted with general-purpose circuit components.

Referring toFIG. 26, the circuit module312is composed of a plurality of printed circuit board layers805-1,806,807,808,809,810,803, and804having a multi-layer structure; a plurality of inter-substrate layers801,802, and812; and circuit components mounted thereon. The circuit module312according to the third embodiment is characterized in that the number of the composed printed circuit boards is reduced, and a three layer construction is configured, as compared with the second embodiment, and can be realized with a simple structure.

As shown inFIG. 26, the circuit module312includes the following:

(a) the demodulation function layer substrate805-ifor a demodulation function for Japan, mounted with the tuner for Japan612-1and the demodulator305-1shown inFIG. 24;

(b) the signal wiring layer substrate806;

(c) the extension function layer substrate807for extending the network function, and is mounted with the Ethernet interface402, the hard disk drive interface403, and the communication controller404;

(d) the signal wiring layer substrate808;

(e) the extension function layer substrate809for extending the cable modem function, and is mounted with the cable modem412;

(f) the signal wiring layer substrate810;

(g) the decoder layer substrate803for the decode function mounted with a CA interface circuit3that is a common interface directly connectable to the decoder LSI2for performing decode processing corresponding to a compression system in digital television broadcasting of each nation and region, a memory304that is a working memory of the decoder LSI2, and a CA module at each market; and

(h) the signal wiring layer substrate804;

and the circuit module312has a multi-layered structure multi-layered in the thickness direction of the respective substrates so that the above respective substrates substantially become parallel to each other.

In this case, the Ethernet interface402, the hard disk drive interface403, the communication controller404, the cable modem412, the decoder LSI2, the memory304, and the CA interface circuit3are mounted on the inside layer, and then, the configuration is of the semiconductor bare chip, and therefore, it is possible to mount on the substrate by wire bonding and flip chip bonding.

As for the extension function layer substrate809and the signal wiring layer substrate810, respective substrate sets concerning a plurality of types of the extension functions are prepared, and then, lamination or multi-layering can be made by selecting one of the substrate sets and by replacing the same. The selected extension function layer substrate809and signal wiring layer substrate810are multi-layered at a position5C of the circuit module312. In addition, as for the extension function layer substrate807and the signal wiring layer substrate808, respective substrate sets concerning a plurality of types of the extension functions are prepared, and then, lamination or multi-layering can be made by selecting one of the substrate sets and by replacing the same. The selected extension function layer substrate807and the signal wiring layer substrate808are multi-layered at a position5B of the circuit module312. Further, a plurality of types of demodulation function layer substrates805-1and the signal wiring layer substrate806are prepared for each nation and region, and then, lamination or multi-layering can be made by selecting and replacing the same. The selected demodulation function layer substrate805-1and signal wiring layer substrate806are multi-layered at a position5A of the circuit module312.

The inter-substrate layer801is multi-layered between the signal wiring layer substrate806and the extension function layer substrate807, the inter-substrate layer802is multi-layered between the signal wiring layer substrate808and the extension function layer substrate809, and the inter-substrate layer812is multi-layered between the signal wiring layer substrate810and the decoder layer substrate803. The inter-substrate layers801,802, and812are substrates for transmitting signals between the upper and lower substrates, and for embedding the circuit components mounted on the upper and lower substrates inside. A material thereof can be served as a substrate for use in an adhesive sheet member and a printed circuit board. The inter-substrate layers801,802, and812are prepared with through holes for forming vias307(to be described later) for transmitting signals between respective substrates, and cutout portions conforming to shapes of the circuit components to be embedded. The via307is formed by filling metal material such as conductive gold, copper, silver, or the like in the through hole. Therefore, any inter-substrate layer is not required to prepare a wiring pattern on the layer surface, and can be realized with a simple structure.

Since the tuner612-1is further mounted, the thus formed configuration can further improve a mounting rate of the circuit components as compared with the first embodiment. A digital television broadcast receiver can further be reduced in size by using the circuit module312. Further, any connection between respective substrates through the bump or the ball is not required as compared with the first embodiment. Therefore, any process for forming the bump and any process for connecting the solder ball are not required, and therefore, the manufacturing can be simplified. In addition, the structure can be simplified by reducing the number of laminating substrates as compared with the second embodiment. Therefore, cost reduction of the digital television broadcast receiver can be achieved by using the circuit module312.

FIG. 27is a sectional view showing a multi-layer structure of the circuit module312shown inFIG. 24. Referring toFIG. 27, the demodulation function layer substrate805-1and the signal wiring layer substrate806are glued together using a predetermined adhesive, and general-purpose circuit components such as the tuner612-1, the demodulator305-1, the VCXO5, and the capacitor7are mounted on the demodulation function layer substrate805-1. In this case, the circuit components shown inFIG. 24are mounted. The wiring between the upper surface of the demodulation function layer substrate805-1and the upper surface of the signal wiring layer substrate806is connected through a via523. The wiring between the upper surface of the demodulation function layer substrate805-1and the back side of the signal wiring layer substrate806is connected through a through hole521. InFIG. 27, there are many vias523and through holes521, and the detailed description of each via and through hole is omitted.

The physical arrangements and transmitting electrical signal types of the land321and the via307between the signal wiring layer substrates808and810and the decoder layer substrate803are determined by relatively in common and preliminarily defining respective types of the extension function layer substrates807and809and the signal wiring layer substrates808and810. The physical arrangements and transmitting electrical signal types of the land321and the via307between the signal wiring layer substrate806and the extension function layer substrate807are determined by relatively in common and preliminarily defining respective types of the demodulation function layer substrate805-1and the signal wiring layer substrate806.

The connecting terminals T6to T10according to the first embodiment are made of the bump. On the other hand, the connecting terminals T2, T4, T5, T7, T8, T10, and T12according to the third embodiment are made of the land321or the via307. Therefore, a group of the lands and the vias, which have been served as only interlayer connection in the prior art, can be dealt with as connector terminals of the interface for replacing the layers. As a result, selection of the extending function can be selected by replacing the layers. Therefore, as for the extension function layer substrate807or809and the signal wiring layer substrate808or810, the substrate sets related to a plurality of types of the extension functions are prepared respectively. Accordingly, lamination or multi-layering can be made by selecting one substrate set and the replacing the same. In addition, the demodulation function layer substrate805-1and the signal wiring layer substrate806are prepared in a plurality of types of the demodulators respectively, and then, lamination or multi-layering can be made by selecting and replacing the same.

In addition, a pitch of a usual connector for use in the connection between respective substrates is several mm. On the other hand, a pitch of the via is approximately several ten μm to several hundred μm. Therefore, the via is used as a connector terminal, and then, reduction in size can be remarkably achieved as compared with the case where the usual connector for use in the connection between the substrates is used. Further, each of the decoder layer substrate803and the signal wiring layer substrate804, the extension function layer substrate809and the signal wiring layer substrate810, the extension function layer substrate807and the signal wiring layer substrate808, and the demodulation function layer substrate805-1and the signal wiring layer substrate806serves as a single substrate, respectively. Therefore, the operation can be also confirmed by each single piece. Further, inFIG. 27, the connecting terminal T12for transmitting the digital television broadcasting wave signal is formed at the leftmost end shown inFIG. 27so as to connect the circuits of the respective substrates.

In addition, as shown inFIG. 27, the decoder LSI2and the working memory304are closely arranged on the same substrate. Therefore, the wiring between the decoder LSI2and the working memory304is shortened. When each of the decoder LSI2and the working memory304is a bare chip, the wiring between the chips can be more shortened. Therefore, since an inductor component and a stray capacitance component in the wiring can be suppressed, and electrical characteristics are improved. The transmission delay time of the electrical signal between the decoder LSI2and the working memory304is shortened, and signal transmission performance can be improved. Further, the false operation due to waveform distortion generated by an electrical signal reflection or the like, the interference on the tuner612-1due to radiation noise, and the like can be suppressed.

In addition, the demodulator305-1is arranged at roughly the center of the demodulation function layer substrate805-1. The wiring between the decoder LSI2and the demodulator305-1has the length substantially equal to the thickness of six substrates and three inter-substrate layers, and then, the wiring length can be remarkably shortened. Therefore, since an inductor component and a stray capacitance component in the wiring can be suppressed, and electrical characteristics of the wiring are improved. The transmission delay time of the electrical signal between the decoder LSI2and the demodulator305-1is shortened, and signal transmission performance can be improved. Further, the false operation due to waveform distortion generated by an electrical signal reflection or the like, the interference on the tuner612-1due to radiation noise, and the like can be suppressed.

Further, the communication controller404is arranged at roughly the center of the extension function layer substrate807. The wiring between the decoder LSI2and the communication controller404is shortened to the length substantially equal to the thickness of four substrates and two inter-substrate layers. Therefore, since an inductor component and a stray capacitance component in the wiring can be suppressed, and electrical characteristics of the wiring are improved. The transmission delay time of the electrical signal between the decoder LSI2and the communication controller404is shortened, and signal transmission performance can be improved. Further, the false operation due to waveform distortion generated by an electrical signal reflection or the like, the interference on the tuner due to radiation noise, and the like can be suppressed.

As described above, in the second embodiment and the third embodiment, lamination order of the respective substrates is different. In the second embodiment, the distance between the decoder LSI2and the demodulator12-1is relatively short. On the other hand, the distance between the decoder LSI2and the communication controller404is relatively long. On the other hand, the third embodiment has a reversed relationship in the above case. The lamination order of the respective substrates can be replaced in response to the configuration of the circuit substrates. Further, it is possible to control the distance between the layers and select a structure so as to obtain the optimum electrical characteristics by replacing the lamination order of the respective substrates.

FIG. 28is a sectional view showing a multi-layer structure according to a modified embodiment of the circuit module312shown inFIG. 24. Referring toFIG. 28, a demodulation function layer substrate805-1and a signal wiring layer substrate806are glued together using a predetermined adhesive, and general-purpose circuit components such as a tuner612-1, a VCXO5, and a capacitor7are mounted on the demodulation function layer substrate805-1. In this modified embodiment, a demodulator305-1is not mounted on the demodulation function layer substrate805-1, and the demodulator305-1is mounted on the signal wiring layer substrate806. The demodulator305-1is embedded in an inter-substrate layer801, and is stored in a circuit module312. Further, referring toFIG. 28, a connecting terminal T12for transmitting the digital television broadcasting wave signal is formed at the leftmost end shown inFIG. 28so as to connect the circuits of the respective substrates.

In this case, an Ethernet interface402, a hard disk drive interface403, a communication controller404, a cable modem412, a demodulator for Japan305-1, a decoder LSI2, a memory304, and a CA interface circuit3are mounted on the inside layer. Accordingly, the configuration is of a semiconductor bare chip, and then, it is possible to mount on the substrate by wire bonding and flip chip bonding.

FIG. 29is a block diagram showing a system configuration including the circuit module312and the mother-board313. The system configuration shown inFIG. 29, mainly different points from the first embodiment or the second embodiment will be described hereinafter.

Referring toFIG. 29, the mother-boards313-1,313-2, and313-3(collectively given reference numeral313hereinafter) are composed of the connectors314connected to antennas12A; card sockets13-1,13-2, and13-3(collectively given reference numeral13hereinafter) into which CA modules14are inserted; and display interfaces206. In addition, the circuit module312includes the decoder layer substrate803mounted with the decoder LSI2provided with a (decoder18and a CPU19, a plurality of memories304, the CA interface circuit3, and an IC card interface22; demodulation function layer substrates805-1,805-2, and805-3(collectively given reference numeral805hereinafter) mounted with the VCXO5, the ROM6, demodulators305-1,305-2, and305-3(collectively given reference numeral305hereinafter); the network extension function layer substrate807; and the CATV modem extension function layer substrate809.

In this case, the VCXO5and the memory304are connected to the decoder LSI2, and the CPU19, the CA interface circuit3, the ROM6, and the IC card interface22are connected via a bus19B. Further, description of the substrate configuration of the circuit module312shown inFIG. 29is the same as that of the substrate configuration shown inFIGS. 26 and 27, and some of the substrates are not shown in the drawing.

The tuner612of the demodulation function layer substrate805receives a digital television broadcasting wave from the antenna12A via the connector314and the connecting terminal T12, frequency converts to a predetermined intermediate frequency signal, and outputs the same to the demodulator305in the demodulation function layer substrate805. The demodulator12demodulates the above frequency-converted intermediate frequency signal into the MPEG-2_TS signal using the incorporated memory, and outputs the same signal to the CA interface circuit3.

In addition,FIG. 29shows the circuit module312, three types of the mother-boards313-1,313-2, and313-3to each nation and region, connected to the circuit module312, and two types of the network extension function layer substrate807and the CATV modem extension function layer substrate809. At the same time, the circuit module312is composed of any one of three types of the demodulation function layer substrates805-1,805-2, and805-3multi-layered on the decoder layer substrate803, and two types of the network extension function layer substrate807and the CATV modem extension function layer substrate809. The circuit module312is characterized in that the circuit module312can be connected to any one of three types of the mother-boards313-1,313-2, and313-3. In addition, the decoder layer substrate803is characterized in that the decoder layer substrate803can be multi-layered to any one of the three types of the demodulation function layer substrates805-1,805-2, and805-3. In addition, the decoder layer substrate803is characterized in that the decoder layer substrate803can be multi-layered to any one, or both, of the two types of the network extension function layer substrate807and the CATV modem extension function layer substrate809.

Further, the circuit module312is provided with lands302on the upper surface or the back side, and T1to T10that are the connecting terminals among incorporated substrates can be electrically connected to the lands302on the upper surface or the back side using the via307, the via523, or the through hole521. In addition, electrical connection can be made from the lands302on the upper surface to the lands302on the back side including the connecting terminals among the incorporated substrates.

Therefore, the circuit module312according to the present embodiment is used, and the mother-board313mounted with the connector314for connecting the television broadcasting wave signal, the card socket13-2,13-3or the IC card socket13-1for the CA module14of each market, and the interface206for each display device is designed, and then, the manufacturers of the digital television receiver can easily commercialize digital television receivers provided with each display device to each nation, region and market at low cost, in small size, and at lightweight as compared with the prior art.

Fourth Embodiment

FIG. 30is a top view of a circuit module315for use in a television set according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 31is a back side view of the circuit module315shown inFIG. 30.FIG. 32is an exploded perspective view showing a multi-layer structure of the circuit module315shown inFIG. 30.FIG. 33is a sectional view showing the multi-layer structure of the circuit module315shown inFIG. 30.FIG. 34is a block diagram showing a system configuration including the circuit module315and mother-boards for countries313-1,313-2, and313-3connected to the circuit module315according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

The television set according to the fourth embodiment will be described hereinafter with reference toFIG. 30toFIG. 34. InFIG. 30toFIG. 34, the same reference numerals are given to those similar to components in the first to the third embodiments, and their detail description will be omitted.

Referring toFIG. 30, the circuit components mounted on the component arrangement surface that is the upper surface of the circuit module315include a multi-layered circuit module316(to be described later), a VCXO5that is a circuit component for analog signal processing which generates a clock of a decoder LSI, a ROM6for storing data such as a program code for a CPU19, a memory4that is a working memory of a decoder18, and a capacitor7connected to a power supply (not shown) for each circuit component.

Referring toFIG. 31, the circuit components mounted on the soldering surface that is the back side of the circuit module315include a capacitor10connected between the power supply of the multi-layered circuit module316and the grounding conductor, and a solder ball9that is an external terminal of the circuit module315for connecting the signal lines and the power supply lines upon mounting the circuit module315on the mother-board313.

Referring toFIG. 32, the circuit module315is composed of the multi-layered circuit module316multi-layered with a plurality of semiconductor chip layers311,310-1,308, and309, printed circuit boards904and905, and circuit components mounted thereon. The circuit module315is characterized in that the number of the composed printed circuit boards is reduced, and one layer construction is configured, as compared with the first embodiment to the third embodiment. In addition, the circuit module315is characterized in that the semiconductor chip layer is multi-layered by an SI through electrode or the like. It turns out that the circuit module315can be realized by a more simplified structure.

As shown inFIG. 32, the circuit module315is composed of the multi-layered circuit module316, and the circuit components mounted on the upper surface of the substrate904shown inFIG. 30. The multi-layered circuit module316is configured such that four semiconductor chip layers, that is, the silicon tuner layer311, the demodulation function layer310-1, the Ethernet controller layer308, and the decoder layer309are multi-layered in the thickness direction of the respective semiconductor chip layers.

The multi-layered circuit module316is provided with extension function layers each having a plurality of types of the extension functions, and then, lamination or multi-layering can be made by selecting and replacing the same. The Ethernet controller layer308that is a selected extension function chip layer is multi-layered at a position5B in the multi-layered circuit module316. In addition, a plurality of types of demodulation function layers are prepared for each nation and region, and accordingly, lamination can be made by selecting and replacing the same. The selected demodulation function layer310-1is multi-layered at a position5A in the multi-layered circuit module316.

Next, a multi-layered structure of the circuit module315will be described usingFIG. 33. The lamination or multi-layering is made by providing a plurality of bumps906between the silicon tuner layer311and the demodulation function layer310-1, between the demodulation function layer310-1and the Ethernet controller layer308, and between the Ethernet controller layer308and the decoder layer309. The bump906is an electrical conductor which is connected on a pad (not shown) that exists on the upper surface or the back side of each semiconductor chip layer to be connected. Further, the bump906is an electrical conductor for transmitting the signals between upper and lower semiconductor chip layers. A plurality of bumps907that is an external terminal of the multi-layered circuit module316for electrically connecting to the printed circuit board904is also formed on the back side of the decoder layer309. Further, although not shown in the drawing, the bump906may be sealed by filling a filling material in a space between the respective semiconductor chip layers.

Referring toFIG. 33, ten bumps906are shown from the lower surface of the silicon tuner layer311to the upper surface of the decoder layer309, and many other bumps906are actually formed. Further, the detailed description of each bump906will be omitted. Seven bumps907are shown at the lower layer of the decoder layer309, and many other bumps907are actually formed. Further, the detailed description of each bump906and bump907will be omitted. Each semiconductor chip layer has a thickness of approximately several hundred μm, and the bumps906and907can be a protruded electrode made of gold, silver, or the like having a height of several μm to several tens μm.

Since the semiconductor chip layer is multi-layered in the multi-layered circuit module316, the thus formed configuration can further miniaturize the same as compared with those of the first embodiment to the third embodiment. In addition, since the interlayer between the upper and the lower semiconductor chip layers can be directly connected using the bump906, any intermediate layer provided with wiring such as an interposer in the interlayer between the semiconductor chip layers is not required, and then, the interlayer can be realized in a simple structure.

The physical arrangements and transmitting electrical signal types of the bump906between the Ethernet controller layer308and the decoder layer309which are the extension function layers are determined by relatively in common and preliminarily defining respective types of the extension function layers. The physical arrangements and transmitting electrical signal types of the bump906between the demodulation function layer310-1and the Ethernet controller layers308which are the demodulation function layers are determined by relatively in common and preliminarily defining respective types of the demodulation function layers.

Accordingly, a group of the bumps, which have been served as only interlayer connection in the prior art, can be dealt with as connector terminals of the interface for replacing the layers. As a result, selection of the extending function can be selected by replacing the layers. Therefore, as for the extension function layers, chip sets related to a plurality of types of the extension functions are prepared respectively, and then, lamination or multi-layering can be made by selecting one chip set and replacing the same. In addition, as for the demodulation function layers, a plurality of types of demodulation chips are prepared respectively, and then, lamination or multi-layering can be made by selecting and replacing the same.

In addition, the substrate is usually approximately several cm square in size. Since the semiconductor chip has approximately a size of several cm square, the size of the circuit module315can be remarkably smaller than the case using the substrate. In addition, a pitch of a usual connector for use in the connection between respective substrates is several mm. On the other hand, a pitch of the bump is approximately several ten μm. Therefore, the bump is used as a connector terminal, and then, reduction in size can be remarkably achieved as compared with the case where the usual connector for use in the connection between the substrates is used. In addition, the semiconductor chip layer has a thickness of approximately several hundred μm, and the bump has a height of several μ to several tens μm, and then, the circuit module can be remarkably thin.

In addition, each of the silicon tuner layer311, the decoder layer309, the Ethernet controller layer308, and the demodulation function layer310-1serves as a semiconductor chip of a single piece, respectively. Therefore, the operation can be also confirmed by each single piece.

In addition, as shown inFIG. 33, the decoder layer309and the working memory4are closely arranged on the same substrate. Therefore, the wiring between the decoder layer309and the working memory4shortens by one bump. Therefore, since an inductor component and a stray capacitance component in the wiring can be suppressed, and electrical characteristics are improved. The transmission delay time of the electrical signal between the decoder layer309and the working memory4is shortened, and signal transmission performance can be improved. Further, the false operation due to waveform distortion generated by an electrical signal reflection or the like, the interference on the tuner due to radiation noise, and the like can be suppressed.

In addition, the wiring between the decoder layer309and the demodulation function layer310-1has the length substantially equal to the thickness of one semiconductor chip layer and two bumps, and then, the wiring length can be remarkably shortened. Therefore, since an inductor component and a stray capacitance component in the wiring can be suppressed, and electrical characteristics of the wiring are improved. The transmission delay time of the electrical signal between the decoder layer309and the demodulation function layer310-1is shortened, and signal transmission performance can be improved. Further, the false operation due to waveform distortion generated by an electrical signal reflection or the like, the interference on the tuner due to radiation noise, and the like can be suppressed.

In addition, the wiring between the decoder layer309and the Ethernet controller layer308has the length substantially equal to the thickness of one bump, and then, the wiring length can be remarkably shortened. Therefore, since an inductor component and a stray capacitance component in the wiring can be suppressed, and electrical characteristics of the wiring are improved. The transmission delay time of the electrical signal between the decoder layer309and the Ethernet controller layer308is shortened, and signal transmission performance can be improved. Further, the false operation due to waveform distortion generated by an electrical signal reflection or the like, the interference on the tuner due to radiation noise, and the like can be suppressed.

As described above, in the present embodiment, the distance of the wiring between the decoder layer309and the Ethernet controller layer308, and the distance of the wiring between the decoder layer309and the demodulation function layer310-1can be shortest.

In addition, as is apparent fromFIG. 33, the connecting terminals906made of the bumps are arranged on the outer side of the respective semiconductor chip layers which constitute the multi-layered circuit module316. Therefore, the circuit mounted on the semiconductor chip layer can be mounted in the vicinity of the center with higher efficiency and with small restriction of the connecting terminals906, and the connecting terminals906can be arranged with better efficiency and a small required area. In addition, the outermost arrangement of the connecting terminals907made of the bumps is arranged on the inner side than the outermost side arrangement of the connecting terminals906. Therefore, the connecting terminals907can be mounted with higher area efficiency and with small restriction of the connecting terminals (bumps)906. In addition, the diameter of the connecting terminal906is smaller than the diameter of the connecting terminal907, and an arrangement interval of the connecting terminal906is smaller than an arrangement interval of the connecting terminal907. Therefore, the circuit module315can be further reduced in size by mounting an inside layer portion of the multi-layered circuit module316in high density. In addition, T8among the connecting terminals907is arranged on the inner side of the circuit of the circuit module315, located nearer to the VCXO5than the other connecting terminals907. Therefore, the wiring distances between the circuit components for connecting clock signals especially required for electrical characteristics can be particularly shortened. The transmission delay time of the clock signal is shortened, and signal transmission performance can be improved. Further, the false operation due to waveform distortion generated by a clock signal reflection or the like, the interference on the tuner due to radiation noise, and the like can be suppressed.

FIG. 34is a block diagram showing a system configuration including the circuit module315and the mother-board313. The system configuration shown inFIG. 34, mainly different points from the first embodiment to the third embodiment will be described hereinafter.

Referring toFIG. 34, the mother-boards313-1,313-2, and313-3(collectively given reference numeral313hereinafter) are composed of connectors314connected to antennas12A; card sockets13-1,13-2, and13-3(collectively given reference numeral13hereinafter) into which CA modules14are inserted; and display interfaces206. In addition, the circuit module315is composed of the multi-layered circuit module316mounted at a position5C of the printed circuit board904, a plurality of memories4, the VCXO, and the ROM6.

The multi-layered circuit module316is composed of the following:

(a) the silicon tuner layer311;

(b) the decoder layer309that is a semiconductor chip incorporated with the decoder18, the CPU19, a CA interface circuit3, and an IC card interface22;

(c) the Ethernet controller layer308for extending the network function, which is a semiconductor chip incorporated with the Ethernet interface402, the hard disk drive interface403, and the communication controller404;

(d) a cable modem layer411that is a semiconductor chip incorporated with the cable modem; and

(e) demodulation function layers310-1,310-2, and310-3(collectively given reference numeral310hereinafter) that are semiconductor chips incorporated with demodulators305-1,305-2, and305-3(collectively given reference numeral305hereinafter), and connecting terminals T4and T5.

In this case, the VCXO5and the memory4are connected to the decoder309, and then, the CPU19, the CA interface circuit3, the ROM6, and the IC card interface22are connected via a bus19B. Further, description of the configuration of the circuit module315shown inFIG. 34is the same as the semiconductor substrate chip configuration and the substrate configuration shown inFIGS. 32 and 33, and some of the substrates and the semiconductor chips are not shown in the drawing.

The silicon tuner layer311receives a digital television broadcasting wave from the antenna12A via the connector314, frequency converts to a predetermined intermediate frequency signal, and outputs the same to the demodulator305. The demodulator305demodulates the above frequency-converted intermediate frequency signal into the MPEG-2_TS signal using the incorporated memory, and outputs the same signal to the decoder layer309.

In addition,FIG. 34shows the circuit module315; three types of the mother-boards313-1,313-2, and313-3to each nation and region, connected to the circuit module315. In this case, the multi-layered module316is composed of any one of three types of the demodulation function layers310-1,310-2, and310-3multi-layered on the decoder309; and two types of the network extension function layer308and the CATV modem extension function layer411. In this case, the circuit module315is characterized in that the circuit module315can be connected to any one of three types of the mother-boards313-1,313-2, and313-3. In addition, the decoder layer309is characterized in that the decoder layer309can be multi-layered to any one of the three types of the demodulation function layers310-1,310-2, and310-3. In addition, the decoder layer309is characterized in that the decoder layer309can be multi-layered to any one, or both, of the two types of the network extension function layer308and the CATV modem extension function layer411.

Therefore, the circuit module315according to the present embodiment is used, and the mother-board313mounted with the connector314for connecting a television broadcasting wave signal, the card socket13-2,13-3or the IC card socket13-1for the CA module14of each market, and the interface206for each display device is designed, and then, the manufacturers of the digital television receiver can easily commercialize digital television receivers provided with each display device to each nation, region and market at low cost, in small size, and at lightweight as compared with the prior art.

Modified Embodiments

In the above embodiments, there are described the circuit modules including the circuits which demodulate a digital audio signal or an analog audio signal, and a digital video signal, each of which is a digital data signal, into an audio signal or a video signal. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and it may be a circuit module including a circuit which demodulates at least one of the digital audio signal or the analog audio signal, and the digital video signal into at least one of the audio signal and the video signal. That is, it may be a circuit module including a circuit which demodulates a content data signal containing contents into a content signal.

FIG. 35is a back side view of the circuit module312shown inFIG. 24, provided with the grounding conductor terminals for signal separation303according to a modified embodiment of the present invention. Referring toFIG. 35, a plurality of connecting terminals302are separated into connecting terminals302for transmitting analog signals and connecting terminals302for transmitting the digital signals. The former connecting terminals302are formed in a region R1. At the same time, the latter connecting terminals302are formed in a region R2; and the grounding conductor terminals for signal separation303are formed between the two regions R1and R2. This makes it possible to electrically separate the analog signal and the digital signal without electromagnetically coupling, and to transmit the same in the circuit module. In addition, it may be such that the connecting terminals for content signals and the connecting terminals for digital television broadcasting wave signals are similarly separated by the above grounding conductor terminals for signal separation303.

Industrial Applicability

As described above, according to the circuit module according to the present invention, the digital television receiver of each display device to each nation, region, and market can be easily commercialized, and then, the cost reduction by the mass production effect can be achieved. In addition, the audio-visual apparatus such as the digital television receiver can be reduced in size and weight. Further, the circuit module is useful for a digital television receiver that receives digital television broadcasting, such as a digital television receiver, a personal computer, a mobile terminal apparatus, a recorder apparatus, or the like, a video reproduction apparatus such as a camera, a DVD player, or the like, and a music reproduction apparatus such as a headphone stereo or the like.