Software-based MIDI solution cuts handset hardware

Edited by the Electronicstalk editorial team Aug 13, 2003

TTPCom has developed a software-based MIDI solution for mobile devices requiring advanced 'polyphonic' sound capabilities.

TTPCom has developed a software-based MIDI solution for mobile devices requiring advanced 'polyphonic' sound capabilities.

This software solution eliminates the need for separate MIDI hardware, therefore saving approximately GBP 2 from the bill of materials (BoM), reducing manufacturing and inventory costs and saving valuable space on the phone's PCB.

The MIDI software, which is part of TTPCom's comprehensive multimedia roadmap, is fully integrated with the company's protocol stack and AJAR applications platform, enabling TTPCom's customers to achieve a fast time to market for this technology.

Many new phone designs include MIDI sound as an essential 'must have' to enhance the user experience.

In addition to polyphonic ringtones, the multimedia messaging service (MMS) enables MIDI music clips to be sent as attachments to messages.

Licensees of TTPCom's MIDI software also gain access to an open applications programming interface (API) which allows developers to customise the phone's games and MMI (man machine interface), by linking imaginative, high quality sounds with key presses or gaming activities.

"MIDI is becoming a standard feature in many of today's phone designs and TTPCom's software based solution enables terminal manufacturers to quickly develop customised solutions that meet user's expectations", said Nick Dillon, TTPCom's MIDI Programme Manager.

"Manufacturers using a hardware approach to MIDI functionality normally have to redesign their PCB layout each time the MIDI synthesis engine is updated and this has a huge impact on time to market.

A software based solution reduces development time and removes reliance on the supply of MIDI chips, with its associated costs".