HDMI 2.0 TX/RX Controller, PHY IP for Ultra HD apps

Synopsys recently launched its DesignWare HDMI 2.0 TX/RX IP solutions that included controller, PHY, and example Linux drivers to reduce designers' integration risk and time-to-market. With aggregate bandwidth of up to 18Gbit/s, the DesignWare HDMI 2.0 IP enables 4Kx2K (4400 vertical pixels x 2250 horizontal pixels) resolution at a 60Hz frame rate in deep colour mode to provide a flickerless, ultra high-definition (UHD) viewing experience.

The IP's ability to scramble transition-minimised differential signalling (TMDS) data above 3.4Gbit/s adds to the high-quality viewing experience by minimising the electromagnetic interference (EMI) that occurs in 8b/10b coded data streams. In addition, its robust analogue front end supports pre-emphasis and adaptive equalisation for excellent signal integrity across cables lengths of greater than 30.48m.

The DesignWare HDMI 2.0 IP solution's configurability enables designers to future-proof their HDTV SoCs by supporting functional updates in software. The 28nm HDMI 2.0 PHY offers 33 per cent lower active and leakage power consumption than the previous generation to help comply with Energy Star requirements. In addition, the single PLL architecture and optimised I/O ring reduce silicon area by 25 per cent compared to the previous generation. The HDMI 2.0 PHY can achieve 6Gbit/s performance in a wire bond package, and the pin order can support a two-layer PCB board for BOM cost savings.

Synopsys has also provided HDMI 2.0 drivers in the Linux kernel. The software drivers include high-bandwidth digital content protection (HDCP), extended display identification data (EDID) and consumer electronics control (CEC) functionality, reducing designers' software development time from weeks to hours. For example, the CEC 2.0 driver supports the universal remote control standard, enabling consumers to control multiple home theatre devices through a single remote control. The drivers may be used in Linux or Linux-based Android systems.

The DesignWare HDMI 2.0 RX/TX Controller and PHY IP are available now in 28nm process nodes from multiple foundries.