SoCs get digital photo frames connected

Conexant Systems Inc. has released the first in a planned series of new SoC solutions targeted at the growing market for "connected" digital photo frames and interactive display appliances (IDAs). These products integrate Internet connectivity and touchscreen technology. The high-performance CX92735 supports advanced features including streaming media content, MP3 audio playback with slideshow functionality, and Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Ethernet connectivity.

"Conexant is a leading provider of solutions for multifunction printers and facsimile applications, and we have applied our proficiency in imaging technologies to deliver a new SoC that allows us to expand into the growing, adjacent connected photo frame segment," said Christian Scherp, president of Conexant. "We have extensive expertise in analog and mixed-signal design, firmware and software development, and in-depth applications knowledge. We will continue to leverage these strengths to capitalize on growth opportunities in the areas we address, and provide our customers with innovative solutions that contribute to their success."

Connected frames and IDAs are offered in a wide variety of form-factors including speakerphones, VoIP phones, and digital photo frames. They can be used in a broad range of video, audio, telephony, and digital signage applications. For example, connected frames can be used within the home to send or receive text messages, make hands-free VoIP phone calls, and access and view information such as news, recipes, weather, and traffic reports from the Internet. Additional applications include interactive kiosks, point-of-sale terminals, baby monitors, and home automation, security, and monitoring systems. In addition, wireless operators are beginning to allow subscribers to use connected frames to receive data over the cellular network.

"Our advanced imaging SoC solution sets a new benchmark in terms of performance," said Bernd Lienhard, senior VP and general manager of Conexant's imaging and PC media business. "In addition, the high level of integration allows our customers to quickly and cost-effectively develop a wide range of feature-rich connected frames and interactive display appliances using a single semiconductor solution."

The CX92735 includes an integrated ARM9 processor with a vector floating point unit and a dedicated image processor, which simultaneously processes streamed content to maximize system performance. The device also features a high-speed DDR2 interface and large data cache to further improve processing performance. The CX92735 is compliant with industry-standard video and audio formats including MPEG-4 and MP3. It is packaged in a 289-pin ball grid array.

In addition, the CX92735 features a high-resolution LCD controller that supports high-definition resolution and key digital audio/video interfaces. The two USB 2.0 host controllers enable high-speed, bidirectional data transfers. The solution also includes a robust, integrated memory card interface that supports major card types and secure digital input output expansion options, providing manufacturers with increased design flexibility. The device also supports Linux and ThreadX OS.

A complete hardware, firmware, and software development kit, which allows manufacturers to reduce product development costs and deliver products to market more quickly, is also available.

In addition to high-performance system solutions for connected frames and IDAs, Conexant's comprehensive imaging portfolio includes highly integrated MFP SoCs for inkjet, laser and photo printers. The company also offers SoCs and data pumps for facsimile applications.

- Henri Arnold
EE Times Europe

Keywords: digital photo frame   Wi-Fi   Bluetooth   processor