Graphics Display Controller suits automotive applications.
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Press Release Summary:
Featuring APIX serial gigabit interface from Inova Semiconductors, single-chip Model MB88F332 has built-in graphics engine that can generate up to 512 sprites from 4 x 4 up to 512 x 512 pixels in size. Controller also includes automotive peripherals such as stepper motor controllers, pulse width modulators, ADCs, I2C, UARTs, and sound generator. Graphics processing is based on line-buffer principle, which eliminates need for internal or external frame-buffer memory.
Original Press Release:
Fujitsu Announces New Graphics Display Controller for Automotive Applications
Single-chip solution delivers sophisticated graphics and cost savings
Langen & Nuernberg, February 26th 2008: Fujitsu Microelectronics Europe (FME) is pleased to announce the expansion of its graphics controllers family with the MB88F332 - a highly integrated single-chip graphics solution for automotive display systems.
The MB88F332 is optimised for in-car-applications such as cluster instrumentation (especially hybrid clusters), head-up systems and central information displays. In this type of application, this new cost-effective controller acts as a single-chip unit where the APIX(TM) link is used in combination with a sophisticated sprite-engine for high-quality graphics generation.
A key feature of the MB88F332 is the APIX serial gigabit interface from Inova Semiconductors. This new standard for the transmission of image and peripheral data will meet the requirements of the latest display applications in vehicles, leading to higher performance and low implementation costs. Fujitsu is the first silicon vendor on the market to integrate this new video interface into a portfolio of microcontrollers and graphics controllers.
Automotive peripherals such as stepper motor controllers, pulse width modulators, ADCs, I2C, UARTs and sound generator are also integrated onto the MB88F332. This allows the device to control all the peripheral functions in a display sub-system. Typical applications for these interfaces include driving dashboard gauges, backlight circuits, LEDs, sensors and on-board communication.
The MB88F332 optimises the bill-of-materials for cluster and other display-based systems by eliminating the need for external memories. The graphics processing is based on a line-buffer principle, which eliminates the need for expensive (internal or external) frame-buffer memory. In addition, integrated flash memory can be used to store a set of sprites (fonts, bitmap objects, etc) without any additional external devices. Direct display connection via RSDS or RGB, 5V automotive interfaces and an analogue front-end for the APIX link are also included to reduce system costs.
The built-in graphics engine can generate up to 512 sprites from 4x4 up to 512x512 pixels in size. Sprites can be animated and can be stored in a variety of colour modes (direct and indirect colour formats). Alpha-blending is possible between several graphic layers and overlapping sprites. The graphics engine is controlled via command lists, which allow pre-loaded sequences of actions to be triggered automatically.
The MB88F332 can be freely programmed for panels from 320x160 up to 1280x480 pixels resolution. A built-in TCON unit allows panels to be attached without the need for further controller logic, which is a significant cost benefit. A signature unit for security and dither, and gamma units for picture quality optimisation are available as well as layer blending and automatic fade-in/out. The physical interface to a display panel can be RGB digital or RSDS.
With its embedded memories, automotive I/Os, inexpensive QFP-package and extended temperature range of -40 to +105°C, the MB88F332 requires no other components and saves significant system costs.
Availability
Sample quantities of MB88F332 will be available from Q3 2008. A dedicated evaluation board, software drivers and sample programs will also be offered in this timeframe.
About Fujitsu Microelectronics Europe
Fujitsu Microelectronics Europe (FME) is a major supplier of semiconductor products. The company provides advanced systems solutions to the automotive, digital TV, mobile telephony, networking and industrial markets. Engineers from design centres dedicated to microcontrollers, graphics controllers, mixed-signal, wireless, multimedia ICs and ASIC products work closely with FME's marketing and sales teams throughout Europe to help satisfy customers' system development requirements. This solutions approach is supported by a broad range of advanced semiconductor devices, IP and building blocks.
For more information, please see: emea.fujitsu.com/microelectronics
Issued on behalf of:
Fujitsu Microelectronics Europe
Pittlerstrasse 47
63225 Langen
Germany
Tel: +49 (0)6103 69 00
Fax: +49 (0)6103 69 01 22
E-mail: jim.bryant@fme.fujitsu.com
Contacts: Jim Bryant
