Tools speed user interface design

Edited by the Electronicstalk editorial team Feb 27, 2007

Development tool for PSoC mixed-signal arrays supports Cypress's CapSense capacitive sensing solution.

Cypress Semiconductor Corp has introduced Version 2.2 of PSoC Express, the innovative development tool for PSoC (Programmable System on Chip) mixed-signal arrays that dramatically simplifies embedded design.

The new release supports Cypress's CapSense capacitive sensing solution that provides the industry's most elegant and flexible replacement for mechanical buttons and sliders.

It also supports Cypress's WirelessUSB LP 2.4GHz wireless radio on a chip with best-in-class interference immunity.

PSoC Express is free and can be downloaded from the Cypress website.

PSoC Express is the first easy-to-use development tool that allows system engineers to develop microcontroller-based designs without any Assembly language or C programming.

By operating at a higher level of abstraction and not requiring firmware development, PSoC Express enables new designs to be created, simulated and programmed to the targeted PSoC device in hours or days instead of in weeks or months.

With built-in support for portability, seamless multiprocessing, design visualisation and a rich content library, designs can be created faster and with higher reliability using PSoC Express.

A single CapSense device can replace dozens of mechanical switches and controls with a simple, touch-sensitive interface.

CapSense-based "button" and "slider" controls are more reliable than their mechanical counterparts because they are not prone to the environmental wear-and-tear that affects exposed buttons and switches.

Cypress has surpassed 100 CapSense design wins worldwide in applications that include mobile handsets, portable media players, white goods, computers, printers and automotive, among others.

"This release enables the broad adoption of one of Cypress's premier programmable solutions - CapSense", said Geoff Charubin, Managing Director of Cypress's Global Marketing Group.

"This enables many new customers to quickly design an elegant CapSense user interface without having to learn a new programming language".