Multifunction touchscreen controller rolls for handhelds

Asahi Kasei EMD Corp. has introduced the AK4184, a multifunctional touchscreen controller for consumer handheld devices such as cellphones, electronic dictionaries, and smart phones.

The AK4184 has advanced integrated functions that include a key pad scanner, GPIO expander, and an output circuit for LED brightness control in addition to the feature of AKM single-functional touchscreen controller. The AK4184 fully supports the user interface design of portable equipments having a larger and higher-resolution display.

Key functions of the AK4184 include a four-wired resistive touch screen interface capable of position detection and pen pressure measurement, sampling frequency up to 125KHz, a 6 x 5-line keypad scanner, GPIO with 8 I/O ports, LCD backlight brightness control, and SPI mP interface.

The operating voltage of analog section range is from 2.5V to 3.6V. A separate 1.6V digital power supply allows an easy interface with a digital chip, such as a CPU. Its ultra low current consumption, 400mA achieves significant power saving for the system design.

The AK4184 is available in small 41-pin BGA. Evaluation boards and samples are available now.