SoCs deliver video warping for sharp images in digital signage

SoCs from Omnitek are designed for video warping in the small projector and digital signage markets. The Flex SoCs are shipping now, after debuting at CES in Las Vegas this week.

The Flex 2K for 2K video (2048 x 1200) and Flex 4K for 4K video (4096 x 2400), both operate at up to 60 frames per second. Both perform a set of image geometry correction functions on a video stream, including rectilinear or arbitrary image warps and 360 degree rotation, as well as edge blending. These characteristics make them suitable for projector image correction and projection of a single large image from multiple projectors. Additionally, they can be used for camera lens correction, such as fish-eye lens distortion, explains Omnitek. The real-time response of the Flex 4K extends its suitability to virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) applications.

The SoCs are based on FPGA technology and are programmed as fixed-function parts and supported by evaluation boards, reference software and datasheets. No FPGA design skills are required to use them confirms Omnetek.

Roger Fawcett, CEO, Omnitek, explained the choice of FPGA technology: “Since the Flex devices are FPGA based, we can offer those customers our customisation service with a rapid turnaround to enable them to get differentiated products to market quickly,” he said.

Omnitek designs intelligent video and vision systems based on programmable FPGAs and SoCs. Design services are combined with optimised FPGA intellectual property (IP) cores covering high-performance video / vision and artificial intelligence (AI) / machine learning enable the company to provide cost-optimised solutions to a range of markets. Omnitek also designs and manufactures a suite of video test & measurement equipment.

http://www.omnitek.tv

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Biosensor module integrates PPG and ECG for mobile use

To deliver both photoplethysmogram (PPG) and electrocardiogram (ECG) measurements for health monitoring from a mobile, battery-powered device, Maxim Integrated Products has unveiled the MAX86150 at CES.

It is believed to be the first biosensor module to comprise internal LEDs, photodetectors and an ECG analogue front-end (AFE) to provide FDA-certifiable PPG and ECG performance in compact, power-saving designs.

Designed for mobile phones, laptops, tablets and smart speakers, it delivers synchronised PPG and ECG measurements without using two separate biosensors that together consume more board space and power than a mobile device can typically afford. As well as space, the design challenge has been to achieve high accuracy in the measurements, particularly in cases where sensor sensitivity might be impacted by low perfusion levels or dry skin.

The MAX86150 overcomes these challenges, sampling both PPG and ECG simultaneously to provide the highest sensitivity of pulse transit time. To reduce battery drain, the module can be shut down through software with near-zero standby current, allowing the power rails to remain powered at all times.

The MAX86150 is available in a 3.3 x 6.6 x 1.3mm, 22-pin optical module.

The module is accurate with common mode rejection ratio (CMRR), a measurement of noise rejection, of at 136dB, the module’s; the highest on the market, says Maxim. Its 100mA-capable, high-dynamic-range LED driver enables higher sensitivity on an array of skin types. In addition, a low-impedance contact for the ECG sensor enables more accurate measurements, even in cases of dry skin, says the company.

It minimises battery drain with low shutdown current of 0.7 microA typical and low power consumption extends battery life compared to competitive solutions.

The module’s dry electrode operation eliminates the need for gels, fluids and sticky or wet pads on other parts of the body to obtain accurate readings.

The MAX86150 is available now and the company also offers the MAX86150EVSYS# evaluation kit.

http://www.maximintegrated.com

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CUI includes digital and analogue MEMS microphones for portable devices

MEMS microphones from CUI are designed for portable devices. The CMM series has been added to CUI’s Audio Product group. They are compact, with a low profile and measure just 2.75 x 1.85 x 0.95mm.

The reflow solder compatible components can be used where surface mount assembly is required, such as audio recording and voice capture in smart phones, tablets, smart home devices and wearables.

The MEMS microphones are omni-directional and available in analogue or digital pulse density modulation (PDM) output types with top or bottom port locations. Offering round or rectangular form factors, the CMM series models carry sensitivity ratings from -44 up to -26dB and signal to noise ratios from 57 up to 65dBA. The MEMS microphones are also claimed to deliver reduced vibration sensitivity, low current draw down to 80 microA, and operating temperature ranges from -40 up to +105 degrees C. Sensitivity tolerances are as low as ±1.0dB, making the CMM series particularly suitable for performing functions such as beam forming and noise cancellation.

The inner chamber construction provides a stable performance, claims CUI, and protects the silicon-based microphones against moisture and dust.

The CMM series is available immediately.

https://www.cui.com

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Osram and GaN Systems develop fast laser driver for lidar

Optoelectronics specialist, Osram Opto Semiconductors, and GaN power semiconductor manufacturer, GaN Systems have collaborated on laser driver technology that enables longer range and higher resolution lidar architectures.

Osram’s laser portfolio for lidar includes the SPL DS90A_3 with a peak power of 120W at 40A. The company plans to release a four-channel SMT laser in 2019. The additional channels increase the field of view (FoV) and total peak power, with each channel being capable of generating 120W.

One of the issues with lidar technology has been its inability to transmit lasers at short pulses, while maintaining high peak power, which is necessary to ensure that the lidar with a long range and high resolution is safe to the human eye. To address this need, the two companies have developed a laser driver with a one nanosecond pulse rise time, while driving all four channels at 40A each to deliver 480W peak power. This peak power can be modulated at low-duty cycles to produce high resolution 3D cloud points at long range for new lidar designs.

Scanning lidar is used in advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Devices react instantly to potential collisions without wasting precious seconds of reaction time. Scanning lidar creates high-resolution 3D images of a car’s surroundings and registers obstacles early enough for ADAS, or self-driving cars, to initiate the appropriate driving manoeuvres, such as braking.

http://www.osram-os.com

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