Fairchild's multimedia USB switch - video

The two most ubiquitous external interfaces on mobile devices today are the USB interface and the 3.5mm audio jack. Fairchild’s 3:1 multi-media switch can be used in applications sharing a USB port with audio and video applications. Fairchild’s latest multi-media switch, the FSA800, enables a single, multi-media port for all Audio, USB data, UART and charger connectivity. It offers two unique features: a charger detection feature and unique microphone capability.


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Arasan bundles key bus interface IP for netbooks

MIPI, SDIO, SuperSpeed USB3.0, SD 3.0 and eMMC

 

Arasan Chip Systems is bundling together its IP portfolio as a complete set of solutions for the growing Netbook market. According to leading industry analysts, sales of Netbooks accelerated to 33 million units in 2009 and are anticipating a healthy growth in 2010, thus ensuring that OEMS cannot afford to ignore this segment.

IDC reported that while worldwide PC shipments increased by 15.2% in 2009, the US alone experienced a whopping 24% rise. This rise was 35% higher than earlier projections and IDC's research showed that it was fueled by consumer demand for Netbooks which increased their share to 20% of all consumer laptop shipments in the second half of 2009. The appeal of a Netbook lies in its compact yet feature-filled form-factor which implies a number of Bus interfaces. Efficient, low-pin count and low power interconnect is a vital part of the chipset infrastructure enabling Netbooks. IP solution providers such as Arasan Chip Systems thus become a valuable resource in enabling the integration of leading edge IP solutions to meet Time to Market goals for OEMs.

Arasan provides a complete solution for the major Bus Interfaces being used in Netbooks today such as MIPI, SDIO, SuperSpeed USB and memory, storage solutions based on SD 3.0 and eMMC. Arasan's domain expertise through early engagement with standard's bodies and leading edge customers, results in the high quality interface IP.

"Arasan has long invested in developing extensive protocol expertise which it leverages in the development and validation of its Bus IP portfolio," said Prakash Kamath, Vice-President of Engineering at Arasan. "Leading Netbook chip vendors rely on our expertise in optimizing their solutions to differentiate their offering. Arasan's engineering teams go beyond delivering and supporting IP - to a more consultative engagement with customers, enabling the technological adoption of leading interconnect standards. Our expanding portfolio now includes PHYs which are the crucial building block for implementing efficient interconnects."

 "The growing speed and complexity of Application Processors and importance of low-pin count and inter-operable interfaces compounds the difficulty faced by Netbook chip design teams," said Ram Gopalan, Senior Director of Marketing at Arasan. "Arasan is the only leading IP provider to deliver a complete solution, working with the customer to ease SoC integration and mitigate Time to Market considerations with its Total Solutions offering."

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Single mini USB for charging, audio and data

Freescale Semiconductor is introducing a mini USB interface IC that helps mobile device designers and manufacturers create smaller, sleeker consumer products by using a single mini USB connector for external accessories including chargers, headsets, microphones and audio/data connections.
In addition to saving valuable board space by eliminating the need for multiple connections, the MC34825 analog IC also lowers power consumption and extends battery life by supporting all-passive audio accessories such as stereo audio, microphone and cord remote control functionality.

“The MC34825 leverages Freescale’s 15 years of experience in delivering portable power management solutions that help our customers differentiate in competitive consumer electronics markets,” said Scott Ward, vice president and general manager of Freescale’s Analog, Mixed-Signal & Power Division. “This IC helps consumer device manufacturers give consumers what they want – smaller form factors and a single connection that eliminates the need for multiple adapters and cords.”

The chip can be used in smartbooks, netbooks, eBooks, mobile phones, smartphones, portable media players, portable navigation devices, digital still cameras and camcorders.
It uses uses intelligent switching to identify up to 32 different accessory types, such as headsets, microphones and chargers. It automatically identifies the attachment and informs the host system, switching the signal or setting the charge current based on the plugged-in charger.
As a universal charging solution, the MC34825 supports multiple charger types including AC, DC and USB. The IC identifies the battery charger type and sets the charge current level accordingly. Additional battery charging features include up to 28V OVP for the VBUS power input, ultra low operating current (<10uA at standby), a power-save mode and automatic detachment detection.