Real-time Video Processor LSI for Car Navigation / Car Entertainment System

ROHM has developed the BU1573KV, a video engine LSI that corrects video images in real time for improved readability, even under less than ideal ambient conditions. Optimized for LCD display units in car navigation and entertainment systems, the core consists of an AIE (Adaptive Image Enhancer) originally developed for surveillance cameras. The BU1573KV is a single video image processing chip specifically designed for display use. The intelligent AIE function treats each section of the video image independently using a number of algorithms based on the brightness - as opposed to conventional units that process the entire image using one uniform brightness value. In addition, an RGB LCD interface is integrated for compatibility with the RGB 18/16 format, making it easy to add onto existing systems while delivering outstanding clarity even on WVGA+ sized LCD displays. A PMW signal generator for backlight modulation as well as brightness and gamma correction lead to a remarkable viewing experience.

Normally all of these functions result in increased energy consumption. The BU1573KV was engineered to operate at low power - 1.5mW (at 15fps QVGA) - reducing the load on the battery. ( Sample Price: 8.5US$ )

· Main Characteristics of the BU1573KV

1. The AIE Core is capable of correcting the brightness of each frame of the image.
2. Each image is rendered completely - similar to the human eye - resulting in staggeringly clear visuals.
3. Built-in color correction function delivers crisp, clear images.
4. Compatible with a number of display resolutions, from QCIF (176 × 144) to WVGQ+ (854 × 480).
5. Supports both CPU bus and RGB interfaces.
6. Compatible with 18/16 bit input/output format.
7. Multiple operation modes: Image Enhance, Analysis, Through and Sleep.
8. Two selectable register settings: indirect addressing through the CPU bus or the I²C interface.
9. Equipped with PWM output for LCD backlight control
10. Built-in gamma and edge-enhancement filters.

· Glossary:

• AIE (Adaptive Image Enhancer)
  Hardware-based image processing technology developed by ROHM that corrects images adaptively in real time, the core is comprised of three distinct blocks, one each for brightness adjustment, image enhancement and color correction. After the image signal is corrected for brightness the image enhancement and color correction blocks use proprietary algorithms to process the image, brightness, and color signals, resulting in ultra-clear, incredibly realistic images.
• Algorithm
  Refers to a mathematical process/procedure used to solve a problem or conduct an operation.
• QCIF
  QCIF, short for Quarter Common Intermediate Format, is a video format specifying a resolution of 176 × 144 dots.
• WVGA +
  A wide screen version of the VGA video format (640 × 480 dots) featuring a resolution of 854 × 480.
• CPU Interface
  Two types of CPU interfaces exist: 80 line and 68 line. 80 line interfaces are used with Intel CPUs while Motorola CPUs require 68 lines. The 80 line interface is comprised of CSB (Chip Select), WRB (Write), RDB (Read) and data lines, with signals traveling back and forth on all four channels. The 68 line interface consists of CSB, W/R (Read/Write), EN (Control Enable) and data lines that also transmit signals on all four channels.
• RGB Interface
  A signal output format that reproduces images using three primary colors: Red, Green and Blue. Color monitors and TVs use RGB. In addition to the RGB signal horizontal and vertical sync signals (H and V) are added and interfaced with the dot clock. A 24 bit RGB signal, with 8 bits allocated to each primary color, is capable of reproducing up to 16,777,216 colors, while 8 bit RGB output can create 256 different colors.
• Edge Enhancement
  A process that results in clearer images by adjusting for sharp image contours and steep concentration gradients.
• Gamma Correction
  A characteristic of CRT displays and LCD monitors is that the display luminescence (brightness) is not directly proportional to the input voltage. Gamma correction was developed to address this issue by ensuring that colors are reproduced nearer to their actual hue, instead of the tendency for dark areas to gravitate towards black and lighter colors toward white. The result is LCD monitors displaying characteristics closer to their CRT counterparts.

	Real-time Video Processor LSI for Car Navigation / Car Entertainment System