Processor enables mutimedia messaging

Edited by the Electronicstalk editorial team Nov 17, 2003

The PNX4000 Nexperia Mobile Image Processor is a highly integrated IC that provides the imaging functions necessary to enable multimedia message service on a wide range of mobile phones.

The PNX4000 Nexperia Mobile Image Processor is a highly integrated IC that provides the imaging functions necessary to enable multimedia message service (MMS) on a wide range of mobile phones.

With a combination of low power consumption, small footprint and low cost, the Nexperia Mobile Image Processor is aimed at the quickly growing mid- to low-end mobile phone market.

According to a report released by ARC Group in September this year, by the end of 2003 more than 55 million consumers worldwide will own camera-phone handsets, more than double the 25 million mobile units sold in 2002.

This burgeoning market will require new and innovative technology to drive the increasing number of applications and new consumer usage demands, such as mobile imaging.

The Philips PNX4000 specifically addresses the consumer trend towards wanting camera functionality in their phones while balancing cost.

In a unique approach to mobile imaging processor design, the PNX4000 exchanges video data directly with the host processor via parallel, programmable interfaces.

The chip quickly processes the digitised data from sensors up to 1.3Mpixel and converts it to a high quality JPEG-compressed snapshot.

The PNX4000 is also capable of enabling a preview to be shown on the mobile device display through the LCD driver.

Thanks to high-performance scalers, this new product can produce a digital zoom effect and can display the field of vision on a wide range of LCDs.

Moreover, an optimised graphics overlay function allows super-imposing of text and icons to snapshots and preview with up to four levels of transparency.

"The high level of integration and flexibility in the Nexperia Mobile Image Processor is perfectly suited for embedded camera applications in mobile phones", said Gertjan Kaat, Senior Vice President, Business Unite Mobile Communications.

"Camera phone technology brings personal and practical benefits to end users and also brings new revenue models to device vendors and wireless operators.

Philips strongly believes that mobile imaging will become a standard inclusion within mobile phones".

Samples of the Philips PNX4000 will be available in January 2004 at under $3.00 for volume production.

Volume production will begin Q2 2004.