Input module aids handheld device navigation

Input device combines a navigation pad module with a motion sense and interface IC to provide a mouse-like pointing solution for handheld and gaming devices.

Avago Technologies has developed a novel input device module that combines a navigation pad module with a motion sense and interface integrated circuit (IC) to provide a mouse-like pointing solution for use in a wide range of handheld and gaming devices, computer peripherals, and remote controls for set-top box and multimedia PC applications.

This new compact input device module from Avago is the first in the industry to incorporate a five-way rocker switch with scrollwheel emulation (linear function), mouse and joystick (2D) navigation.

Based on embedded capacitive sense technology, this input module will enable designers to develop input devices that can greatly enhance the user's experience when navigating long menu lists on computers and handheld devices, and for analogue cursor control in web browsing, gaming or digital camera applications.

Avago's innovative input device solution combines its AMRS-2325 mobile navigation pad module and AMRI-1000 mobile navigation sense and interface IC.

The AMRS-2325 incorporates a self centring button with integrated click function in a compact 23mm diameter by 4mm tall package.

The AMRI-1000 IC enables the input module to operate as a four- or eight-way switch with scrollwheel functionality and it supports both mouse and joystick modes to provide end-users with a new and unique navigation experience such as rapid scrolling and panning of web pages and precise web link selection.

In addition, with the capacitive sense technology incorporated into this input device solution, bare skin contact is not required for operation of the navigation pad module.

As a result, end users will have the added benefit of being able to operate the input device while wearing gloves.

The operating mode of the AMRS-2325 and AMRI-1000 input device solution can be dynamically reconfigured to provide the best user navigation experience for any active application.

For example, the user can select joystick mode for a gaming application, scrollwheel mode for phonebook or MP3 list scrolling, and four-way switch mode for menu navigation.

"The combined functionality of Avago's mobile navigation pad module and interface IC provides designers with a small form factor input module which improves on the traditional linear navigation experience now available on computer mice and other popular input devices where quick and easy navigation of long e-mail and song lists, and directional cursor movement in gaming applications are most desired", says Khin-Mien Chong, General Manager, Mobile Input Device Operations.

"This new multimode, multifunction input module was developed to specifically address the design requirements of designers developing next generation input devices for a wide range of applications".

Avago's AMRS-2325 and AMRI-1000 provides designers with an input module that provides haptic feedback for intuitive use, an integrated tactile click, and a capacitive sensor IC.

The IC interfaces to the host over an I2C-compatible or SPI serial bus.

Moreover, this package was designed specifically for low battery power operation and includes programmable wake-on-touch power saving modes to conserve power and extend battery life.

Samples and production quantities are available now through Avago's direct sales channel.

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