Freescale Semiconductor has expanded its portfolio of i.MX applications processors that integrate hardware-based display controllers and ARM Cortex-A8 cores with three members of the i.MX50 product family that enable end devices featuring LCD and EPDs (electronic paper displays).
The EPD technology is suitable for applications such as digital signage, kiosks and home or office automation equipment. Integrating an ePxP (enhanced pixel processing pipeline) and the OpenVG hardware accelerator, the processors are claimed to display advanced graphics and UIs (user interfaces) with minimal CPU overhead. An integrated LCD interface supports the simultaneous deployment of EPD and LCD displays in a single end product. The processors support LCD displays with resolution up to 1280x1024pixels.
The processors are suitable for portable products such as medical monitoring tablets and PNDs (personal navigation device). The i.MX507 and i.MX508 processors both support the EPD controller, with different levels of graphics capabilities for targeted EPD markets, claims the company. The company plans to offer a processor EVK (evaluation kit), as well as an eReader reference design. Both development solutions include customised board support packages to streamline development.
The company's commitment to system-level development support for the processor family also includes power management technology. Designed specifically for use with the processor family as well as the processor product line, the company's MC34708 PMIC (power management IC) is claimed to feature a high level of integration targeted toward single-cell Li-ion applications. The PMIC incorporates a number of power supplies to support the processor, as well as an array of system peripheral ICs. An integrated dual-input switching charger allows for fast charge time from either direct input supply or USB input, where it supports auto-charge modes compliant with the universal charging standard. An integrated mini and micro-USB switch allows for porting of audio, UART and USB through a single connector enabling a streamlined design. Additional features include a coulomb counter, general purpose 10bit ADC, real time clock with backup battery and charger, indicator LED drivers and six GPIO (general purpose input/output) ports.
The PMIC also can be used in non-battery powered applications where the charger buck is used for supplemental supply generation. The company's processor and PMIC are available as reference designs with full software BSPs (board support packages) and backed by integrated technical support. The processor EVK is a single board solution with optional display add-ons. The company also offers a SABRE (smart application blueprint for rapid engineering) platform for eReaders reference design and Linux and Android software.
The PMIC is available in both 8x8mm 0.5mm pitch BGA and 13x13mm 0.8mm pitch BGA versions.
