Flexible stand-alone video converter simplifies testing of APIX3 automotive displays
Inova Semiconductors has added to its APIX3 ecosystem with a compact HDMI-APIX3 converter from partner company ARRK Engineering.
APIX3 (automotive pixel link) is a multichannel serialiser/deserialiser technology for high-resolution video applications in motor vehicles. It is used in particular in modern infotainment and driver assistance systems (ADAS) and can simultaneously set up multiple display connections with a bandwidth of up to 12 Gbit per second and supports HD as well as ultra HD displays.
The converter allows the convenient display of video signals from any HDMI source on APIX3-compatible automotive displays. In addition, the converter features flexible firmware that enables easy analysis of APIX3 displays as well as uncomplicated debugging of the component. Both image and control data can be transmitted. The HDMI interface resolution can be adjusted automatically or manually to the respective APIX3 display and a complex control unit can be simulated by integrating driver functions. It is also possible to receive and evaluate MII Ethernet data.
The HDMI-APIX3 converter measures 105 mm x 46 mm x 80 mm and weighs 250g. On the front there is one interface each for the USB, Ethernet and HDMI connection while the back allows APIX3 component connection to be tested, a supply voltage of 12 VDC and an exchangeable SD card.
With a power consumption of 2.7 W, the integrated microcontroller controls all the APIX3 converter’s main functions. It co-ordinates the HDMI interface’s display data channel so that the video data is sent in the format for the connected display. This means that the resolution of the HDMI interface can be adjusted at any time during runtime which in turn aids play back of desired image content on the display device to carry out extensive tests and analyses.
In display development, the HDMI-APIX3 converter is suitable both as a general measurement technology and video source. It can also be used in OEM applications, rapid prototyping or targeted HMI development that needs to be adapted to a specific application environment. And because this converter is downward compatible with the APIX2 interface, it can also be used with previous generation displays.
