HDMI protection devices from ST target Ultra-HD devices

STMicroelectronics has rolled out its single-chip HDMI signal-conditioning and protection ICs that claim to deliver maximum performance at par with the fastest 4K Ultra-HD data rates. The HDMI2C1 series boasts active pull-ups on all display data channel (DDC) lines to preserve Ultra-HD signal integrity and reduce dependence on HDMI cable quality, indicated the company.

Moreover, the integrated ESD protection has increased bandwidth of 10GHz to pass high-speed 4K signals without distortion. On the other hand, low clamping voltage of 10V and fast response time of 30ns prevent unwanted transients damaging the latest HDMI chips manufactured in ESD-sensitive deep-nanometre process technologies.

Using an HDMI2C1 device can save 80 per cent of PCB space occupied by discrete protection components, and can accelerate time to market for fast-moving consumer products such as Ultra-HD set-top boxes and Blu-ray players, stated the company. In addition, pin assignments are optimised for use with economical single- or two-layer boards.

Additional features of the HDMI2C1 series include a 5V low-dropout (LDO) regulator with short-circuit and over-temperature protection, as well as level shifters for the HDMI DDC, consumer electronic control (CEC) and hot-plug detect (HPD) lines with back-drive protection. In total, four variants are available, including the HDMI2C1-6C1 for use with external ESD protection or common-mode filtering (ST's ECMF series) on HDMI data lines thereby enhancing design flexibility.

The HDMI2C1-14HD, HDMI2C1-14HDS, HDMI2C2-14HD and HDMI2C1-6C1 are available in QFN-36L or uQFN-18L packages. Prices start from $0.63 for the HDMI2C1-14HDS, or $0.50 for the HDMI2C1-6C1 for orders of 100 units.