Inova Semiconductors expands its APIX3 ecosystem with HDMI-APIX3 converter from ARRK Engineering

Inova Semiconductors announces the expansion of its APIX3 ecosystem with a compact HDMI-APIX3 converter from partner company ARRK Engineering. APIX3 (Automotive Pixel Link) is the leading multichannel serialiser/deserialiser technology for high-resolution video applications in motor vehicles. It is used in particular in modern infotainment and driver assistance systems (ADAS) and can simultaneously set up multiple display connections with a bandwidth of up to 12 Gbit/s and supports HD as well as Ultra HD displays.

The converter developed by ARRK Engineering allows the convenient display of video signals from any HDMI source on APIX3-compatible automotive displays. In addition, the converter features flexible firmware that enables easy analysis of APIX3 displays as well as uncomplicated debugging of the component. Both image and control data can be transmitted. The resolution of the HDMI interface can be adjusted automatically or manually to the respective APIX3 display. A complex control unit can be simulated by integrating driver functions. It is also possible to receive and evaluate MII Ethernet data.

“Inova is committed to continuously expanding the APIX3 ecosystem and therefore works closely with its partners,” says Markus Römer, Manager Field Application at Inova Semiconductors. “The new HDMI-APIX3 converter from ARRK Engineering is another component in the APIX3 portfolio. It supports system developers as well as vehicle manufacturers in the development, validation and release of complex APIX3-networked infotainment solutions.”

Compact dimensions

The HDMI-APIX3 converter features a compact design with dimensions of 105 mm x 46 mm x 80 mm and a low weight of 250 g. On the front there is one interface each for the USB, Ethernet and HDMI connection. The back allows the connection of the APIX3 component to be tested, a supply voltage of 12 VDC and an exchangeable SD card. The power consumption of the converter is 2.7 W. The integrated microcontroller controls all important functions of the APIX3 converter. For example, it coordinates the display data channel of the HDMI interface so that the video data is sent in the format for the connected display. This means that the resolution of the HDMI interface can be adjusted at any time during runtime. This makes it easy to play back the desired image content on the display device in order to carry out extensive tests and analyses.

Wide range of applications

There are many possible uses for the HDMI-APIX3 converter. In display development, it is suitable both as a general measurement technology and video source and, for example, for the durability testing of displays. It is also used when it comes to the uncomplicated review of new concept ideas from an OEM, rapid prototyping or targeted HMI development that is to be precisely adapted to the respective application environment. Since the HDMI-APIX3 converter is downward compatible with the APIX2 interface, it can also be used with displays of the previous generation.

“This video converter has already been used hundreds of times by customers and is the result of a close and long-standing cooperation with Inova and our customers,” explains Kai Walz, Group Leader of Electronics Product Development at ARRK Engineering. “We are always pleased when our customers surprise us with new use cases that we hadn’t even thought of, and we are happy to make customer-specific adjustments if necessary.”

About ARRK Engineering

ARRK Engineering is part of the international ARRK group of companies and specialises in product development. With our expertise in electronics & software, CAE, materials, acoustics, composites, car body & high-voltage storage, powertrain, chassis, interior & exterior, optical systems, passive safety and thermal management, we develop products for our customers in an integrated and independent manner as a long-standing strategic development partner. Within the ARRK group of companies, we implement product developments from virtual development to prototypes and small series production. The global ARRK Engineering Division has sites in Germany, Romania, UK, Japan and China. The company employs over 1,350 people. Further information at www.arrk-engineering.com

About Inova Semiconductors

Inova Semiconductors GmbH is a fabless semiconductor manufacturer headquartered in Munich, Germany. The company was founded in 1999 and specializes in the development of state-of-the-art products for Gigabit/s serial data communication. Besides its successful APIX (Automotive Pixel Link) products, sold in very high volume – more than 150 million devices – and now in their third generation, Inova developed the innovative ISELED technology in 2016, meanwhile offering the first products. Inova Semiconductor’s IC products are manufactured at leading foundries in Asia and sold through a worldwide sales network. More information: https://inova-semiconductors.de