Conexant delivers new imaging controller for ZINK Zero Ink photo printing apps

NEWPORT BEACH, USA: Conexant Systems Inc., a leading supplier of innovative semiconductor solutions for imaging, audio, embedded modem, and video surveillance applications, today announced an eco-friendly system-on-chip (SoC) solution for ZINK®-enabled printing products, which allow consumers to print digital photos and other images without ink cartridges or ribbons.

Conexant teamed with a major Japanese electronic components manufacturer to develop the highly integrated CX92137 photo printer SoC, which features ZINK Imaging’s ZINK Zero Ink Printing Technology. ZINK Imaging provides the proprietary ink-free printing technology, as well as ZINK Paper, the heart of the system, to their global partner network.

“We developed a complete system-on-chip solution for the growing ink-free photo printer market that provides consumers with superior image quality, while minimizing the impact to the environment,” said Phil Pompa, senior vice president of product marketing for Conexant. “Our highly integrated solution enables small form-factor ZINK print mechanisms to be embedded in consumer products ranging from small digital photo frames to personal computers and television sets.”

The CX92137 features advanced imaging hardware that improves image processing speed and quality. The new SoC contains a high-performance ARM 32-bit core with an integrated memory management unit (MMU) that delivers the processing power required for high-speed imaging applications.

The SoC also includes a memory card controller, touchscreen support, a color LCD controller that supports high-resolution imaging, and support for HDMI transmitters that enable consumers to view photos on a television set.

Additional features include USB 2.0 high-speed ports that enable connections to PCs and cameras, and serial and parallel peripheral interfaces that support Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. In addition, the CX92137 integrates low-power features, such as wake-on-USB and wake-on-LAN to improve power efficiency. The high level of integration also allows product developers to lower system costs, and dramatically reduce board space.

Conexant’s comprehensive imaging product portfolio includes highly integrated MFP SoCs for inkjet, laser, and photo printers. The company also offers fax SoCs and datapump solutions, and high-performance system solutions for “connected” frame applications.

The CX92137 is priced at $10 each in volume quantities. It is offered in a 289-pin fine-pitch ball grid array (FPBGA) lead-free package, and is available in sample quantities today.