HDMI signal-conditioning IC features TLC architecture

NXP Semiconductors N.V. has introduced the IP4786CZ32, a highly integrated HDMI signal-conditioning IC that boasts the highest levels of protection for HDMI 1.4 transmitter applications. It also features a Transmission Line Clamping (TLC) architecture that provides lower peak clamping voltages during an ESD strike. The IC delivers strong ESD protection, excellent signal integrity and high level of integration, says NXP.

Designed for home entertainment systems such as set-top boxes, SD and HD DVD players, Blu-ray players and A/V switches, the IP4786 also features extremely low power consumption in standby mode, NXP stated. This why the company considers the IC ideal for mobile applications—portable media players, notebooks and tablets, game consoles, mobile phones, digital camcorders and cameras.

A new TLC architecture that provides lower peak clamping voltages protect the HDMI TMDS signals during ESD. Zero-clamping buffers on the control lines isolate these signals from an ESD strike. All 13 signal lines are rated for ±8kV in accordance with the IEC 61000-4-2, level 4 standard, as well as the 5V power source pin. In addition, the IP4786CZ32 incorporates an overcurrent limiting 5V LDO, conforming to the HDMI 1.4 requirement for overcurrent protection.

The TLC protection architecture integrates impedance-matching inductors along with the ESD protection device, providing matched 100? differential impedance through the device. Unlike traditional shunt ESD devices that require board-specific external compensation, the IP4786CZ38 does not require any additional adjustment to the PCB layout. Impedance is also independent of the PCB board stackup. The buffers on the control lines are the industry's first solution that provides voltage level translation on both high and low logic levels, NXP claimed. The buffers also enable long-cable support by overcoming the slow signal rise times associated with long cable lengths.

The IP4786CZ32 provides the fewest components and smallest board footprint of any HDMI signal conditioning and protection solution, the company said. Eliminating up to 29 discrete components, the device also reduces the required footprint by 60 percent, compared with alternative integrated solutions.

The IP4786CZ32 signal-conditioning device is available for $1.20 in quantities of 1,000.