HDMI Control Chip Configurable Pin for Lower Pin Count
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional control chips for HDMI devices require a large number of dedicated pins for connecting HDMI connectors, leading to increased package size and production costs, especially when supporting multiple connectors or additional functions.
Innovation Solution
A control chip with a configurable pin that can switch between input and output modes, allowing it to serve as either an input pin for receiving a power supply signal or an output pin for controlling hot plug detection, thereby reducing the number of dedicated pins needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated pins are used for each HDMI connector function, then connection reliability is ensured, but pin count increases leading to larger package size and higher production cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a configurable pin that can dynamically switch between input and output modes. This pin serves multiple functions: it can receive power supply signals for connection detection, output control signals for hot plug detection, and adapt its direction based on operational requirements. By making this single pin universal, the patent reduces the total pin count while maintaining all necessary HDMI connector functions, directly resolving the contradiction between reliability and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic pin configuration where the pin's electrical direction (input or output) can change based on control logic. This dynamic capability allows the same pin to perform different functions at different times, replacing what would traditionally require multiple static dedicated pins. The dynamic switching mechanism ensures reliable connection detection and hot plug control while minimizing the number of physical pins required
2Adaptability or versatility
If more functions are supported on the control chip, then device versatility is improved, but pin count must be increased
Solution Approach 1:
The configurable pin is designed to support multiple HDMI connector functions including power supply reception, hot plug detection control, and connection status monitoring. By implementing a universal pin that can adapt its function through control logic, the patent enables the control chip to support multiple HDMI connectors and additional functions without proportionally increasing pin count, thus improving versatility while controlling device complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A control chip includes a configurable pin and a control logic. The configurable pin is arranged for coupling a first pin and a second pin of a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) connector. The control logic is arranged for controlling the configurable pin to switch between a first operation mode and a second operation mode. The configurable pin serves as an input pin when operating in the first operation mode, and the configurable pin serves as an output pin when operating in the second operation mode. For example, the input pin is arranged for receiving a power supply signal derived from a +5V power signal received by the first pin, and the output pin is arranged for outputting a control signal for controlling hot plug detection (HPD).