HDMI receiver eases switch to next-generation TVs

A new high-definition multimedia interface receiver IC aims to answer consumer demands for superior image quality in next-generation TVs.

Philips has unveiled a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) receiver IC, the TDA9975A, to meet consumer demands for superior image quality in next-generation TVs.

A reference design is also available with the new receiver IC.

Philips' TDA9975A HDMI receiver will allow TV manufacturers to combine uncompressed high-definition video and multichannel audio through a single digital interface and a tiny, user-friendly connector.

For consumers, HDMI technology not only offers crisp image quality, but the use of a single cable for both audio and video that dramatically simplifies home theatre system installation.

Philips' TDA9975A, implemented in a reference design, successfully passed the HDMI 1.1 Compliance Test Specification.

It is the only receiver on the market that offers a low-power combination of a triple 10bit ADC input interface, dual-input HDMI receiver and high-bandwidth digital content protection (HDCP) decryption keys on a single chip.

All these onboard features extend space and cost savings, and allow TV manufacturers to simplify the design of a TV accepting both state-of-the-art digital HDMI input signals and legacy YPbPr/RGB analogue signals.

The higher integration and low power consumption of the receiver also contribute to the lifetime of TV sets.

"HDMI is overtaking the digital visual interface (DVI) standard found in CE products like digital TVs, set-top boxes and DVD players due to its multichannel audio support and smaller connector compared with the DVI specification", said Brian O'Rourke, Senior Analyst with In-Stat/MDR.

"Approximately 3 million TV sets were installed with HDMI connectors in 2004, accounting for 18% of the digital TV market share".

"By 2006, HDMI is expected to be installed in approximately 20 million TV sets, bumping its market share to 42%".

"Philips' highly integrated receiver will enable TV manufacturers to quickly and effortlessly ramp up production of high-definition TVs to meet the latest HDMI specifications and at the same time remain compliant with all analogue standards - from Pal/NTSC interlaced to 720p and 1080i HDTV", said Bertrand Woestelandt, Philips Semiconductors' HDMI Strategic Marketing Manager.

"Philips' TDA9975A receiver ensures high-definition TVs retain the highest possible video quality from the source right up to the display".

The availability of a reference design for Philips' TDA9975A enables TV manufacturers to include the new HDMI receiver feature in existing systems by optimising preset input interface architectures, databus layouts and PCB print complexity and size.

The TDA9975A reference design converts HDMI 1.1 audio/video input data streams into analogue YPbPr video signals and analogue L/R stereo audio signals.

This board is supplied with a 7V power supply, and when connected to a 17in HD-ready LCD TV, displays resolutions from 480p/576p up to 720P/1080i.

Offering full system support, this reference design is available now and comes with complete software tools, flowcharts, drivers and settings.

In addition to the TDA9975A receiver, Philips is offering the TDA9974A, a dual-input HDMI receiver, and the TDA9970A, a combination of a dual-input HDMI receiver and a three-input triple 8bit ADC.

These receivers are pin-to-pin and software-compatible with each other, allowing manufacturers to minimise PCB and software development costs.

These three parts are available now in LBGA256 and SQFP208 packages.

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