Broadcom Chip Triples Internet Content Speed

Broadcom Corp. said it has developed a chip that triples the speed of sending voice and Internet content via cable-television lines. The company said it also has developed a semiconductor that more than doubles the speed of receiving data. The chips will be used in equipment that enables data to travel via cable networks.

Increasing network capacity allows cable-TV companies to offer such services as videoconferencing and Web site hosting, as well as private access to corporate networks for telecommuters. These new services are expected to boost sales, offsetting increased competition and the cost of expanding networks.

Shares of Irvine-based Broadcom fell 89 cents to close at $35.90 on Nasdaq.