Synopsys' silicon-proven DesignWare HDMI 1.4a Tx controller and PHY IP receive HDMI certification

MOUNTAIN VIEW, USA: Synopsys Inc. announced that Synopsys' DesignWare High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) 1.4a Transmitter (Tx) digital controller and PHY IP solutions in the 40-nanometer (nm) process node have achieved certification from an HDMI Authorized Training Center (ATC).

The DesignWare HDMI PHY IP achieved HDMI 1.4a compliance by passing all process, voltage and temperature variation tests, which are key certification requirements for environmental robustness.

Synopsys' fully compliant HDMI 1.4a Tx solution is now available in more than 10 process technologies, ranging from 90-nm to 40-nm. With support for the latest HDMI 1.4a specification features such as all eight 3D formats, HDMI Ethernet and Audio Return Channel (HEAC) and real-time content signaling, the DesignWare HDMI 1.4a Tx controller and PHY IP enable system-on-chip (SoC) designers and device manufacturers to quickly incorporate advanced functionality into their multimedia source applications with less risk and improved time-to-market.

The DesignWare HDMI 1.4a Tx IP solution includes a comprehensive set of IP deliverables such as baseline software drivers for system development, which help designers quickly embed this complex interface into next-generation multimedia SoCs. It also includes many performance features designers need to create a state-of-the-art viewing experience, including:

* Support for all eight 3D formats, such as side-by-side (full and half) and frame/line/field alternative, providing extended flexibility for system designers.
An integrated HEAC block simplifies the connectivity between internet-enabled digital home devices by enabling the transfer of Ethernet and audio frames through a single HDMI cable.

* Real-time content signaling capability enables televisions to automatically optimize the picture setting with no user intervention.

* Support for 4K x 2K resolution delivers up to four times the resolution of 1080p (Quad HD technology), providing the same resolution as state-of-the-art digital cinema.

"We tested Synopsys DesignWare HDMI 1.4 IP against the stringent physical layer requirements of the HDMI specification and found that it passes with outstanding margin. This demonstrates Synopsys' deep understanding of the HDMI specification," said Quintin Anderson, COO of Granite River Labs.

"Pre-compliance testing gives adopters confidence that their product will pass official compliance testing the first time, avoiding costly product delays and re-testing expenses. Passing compliance gives designers added confidence that the IP is robust and interoperable with existing HDMI products while providing support for the latest functionalities such as HEAC and 3D formatting."

"HDMI is enabled in more than 1.5 billion consumer devices and is now gaining significant traction in delivering 3D functionality in digital home theater systems, gaming consoles and other portable multimedia devices," said John Koeter, VP of Marketing for the Solutions Group at Synopsys. "Synopsys' high-quality, silicon-proven DesignWare HDMI 1.4a IP solution is optimized for small area, low power and high performance, enabling designers to quickly incorporate the latest functionality with less risk."

The DesignWare HDMI 1.4a Tx digital controller and PHY IP solution is available now for 90-nm to 40-nm process nodes.