Expanding its range of multimedia flat-panel controller assemblies, Kontron
has introduced the RoHS-compliant CRT to LCD-6 controller assembly, which
converts analog RGB or digital DVI input (optional) signals into digital TTL
or LVDS signals for TFTs.
Applications include POS and POI terminals, gaming machines, and medical
devices whose central computer provides analog VGA or digital DVI graphics
output, and which are to be connected to flat panel displays. This is the
scenario for most embedded CPU assemblies and the new controller makes it
easier for users to integrate attractive and increasingly economical TFTs
into their systems. The controller can be used in any system because it does
not require a PCI or AGP slot, says the company.
The CRT to LCD-6 multimedia flat panel controller assembly with integrated
Genesis gm5621 chip provides resolutions up to SXGA. It can process input
resolutions up to UXGA and scales the image to the appropriate size for the
panel. The assembly is particularly notable for the improvement in its
scaling algorithms compared to its predecessors; the shared power supply for
the panel and controller provided by two board-specific PSUs, and a new
10-pin, high-power connector for backlight support (up to 4A), which is
found on the version for LVDS panels. Also, the cost-performance ratio for
CRT to LCD boards, has been improved even further. The features of the board
are exactly the same as of the quite recently released CRT to LCD-5, but
footprint is compatible with the previous CRT to LCD-1-LC, making upgrades
within the same product series very simple. This Form, Fit & Function
Longevity is an essential part of the latpanel solutions of Kontron, says
the company.
The flat panel controller is available with FLEX32 interfaces (for TTL) or
JILI output (for LVDS) to the TFT. The JILI30 interface allows the control
of single and dual port LVDS TFTs up to a data width of 2 x 24 bit, while
FLEX32 allows the control of 18-bit TTL flat panels. A single 12V power
supply is plenty. The controller manages the power sequencing for the panel
and the backlight support. Complete kits including cables can now be
offered for most common TFTs. It is generally possible to adapt to other
flat panel types on request and with minor expense.
An OSD (On Screen Display) keypad that can be used for changing settings and
controlling the special properties of the Kontron CRT to LCD-6 is also
available. The OSD configuration can be handled very easily via the keypad.
Via the serial interface from a PC running Windows the configuration can be
done by the very powerful new software tool 'Kontron Configuration
Workbench' (KCWB), which from now on will be the same for all new members of
the CRT to LCD-product family. A new type of adapter cable (KAB-COMtoTTL)
that converts the RS232 commands into TTL signals is available as an
accessory.
Once settings are optimized, they can be saved as a file and called up at
any time - even for other panels. The serial OSD control is seen as ideal
for use in mass production, as it makes it unnecessary to adjust each
controller individually. The adjustment of the each flat panel is done via
special 'panel files', which 'guarantee' an optimal display. Individual
firmware adjustments can also be made quickly and conveniently with the
KCWB-Tool as well. Control software and panel files can be downloaded from
its website, says the company.
