HDMI Hot Plug Detection Using Modem Voltage Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable terminals lack support for the Hot Plug Detect (HPD) function, which is necessary for confirming HDMI connections and protecting communication modems from surge voltages when connected to display apparatuses using HDMI.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that generate an HPD signal using the operation voltage of a first modem to enable a second modem, allowing video data output upon connection, and convert specific voltages to operate the communication modem, thereby enabling the HPD function and protecting against surge voltages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the HPD function is not supported in portable terminals, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of HDMI connection and protection against surge voltages deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the communication modem perform multiple functions: its original communication function plus the HPD function for HDMI connection detection and surge voltage protection. By reusing existing hardware resources (communication modem, voltage conversion module) for dual purposes, the system achieves reliable HDMI connection support without adding dedicated HPD hardware components, thus resolving the contradiction between reliability improvement and device complexity increase.
2Reliability
If dedicated HPD hardware is added to portable terminals, then the HPD function reliability is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the communication modem perform multiple functions: its original communication function plus the HPD function for HDMI connection detection and surge voltage protection. By reusing existing hardware resources (communication modem, voltage conversion module) for dual purposes, the system achieves reliable HDMI connection support without adding dedicated HPD hardware components, thus resolving the contradiction between reliability improvement and device complexity increase.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication modem performs the HPD function autonomously using its own voltage conversion capabilities. The modem converts voltages received from the display apparatus to operate itself and generate HPD signals without requiring external dedicated HPD circuitry. This self-service approach enables reliable HPD functionality while avoiding additional hardware complexity.
3Device complexity
If the communication modem is used for HPD function, then the device complexity is reduced, but the communication modem may be affected by surge voltages from HDMI connection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements protective measures before surge voltages can damage the communication modem. A voltage conversion module converts HDMI-related voltages (including potential surge voltages) to safe levels before they reach the communication modem. Additionally, the modem only activates after detecting stable voltage levels, providing prior cushioning against harmful surge voltages while maintaining low device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The voltage conversion module acts as an intermediary between the HDMI connection interface and the communication modem. It isolates the modem from direct exposure to surge voltages by converting and stabilizing voltages first, then providing clean, safe voltage levels to the modem for HPD signal generation. This intermediary protection resolves the contradiction between using existing hardware and protecting it from harmful factors.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for supporting a Hot Plug Detect (HPD) function in a portable terminal using High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) are provided. The apparatus includes an HPD unit for generating an HPD signal using an operation voltage of a first modem upon connecting to a display apparatus through an HDMI cable, the first modem for enabling a second modem upon detecting the HPD signal, and the second modem for outputting video data upon being enabled by the first modem.