CRTtoLCD-7: Kontron's flat panel-controller now with screen saver function and ready for an optional TV tuner module

Customizable controller thanks to modular construction

Eching/Germany, April 24, 2006 - Kontron’s recently introduced CRTtoLCD-7 aFLAT-series RoHS-compliant flat panel controller is now ready for the forthcoming optional TV tuner expansion module. An integrated screensaver function has recently been added to prevent burn-in and the so-called image sticking in TFTs, which can occur when the same image is displayed on the screen for long periods of time. Also, the module’s connectors have been modified so that they match those on the non-RoHS CRTtoLCD-2 and CRTtoLCD-3 modules, which makes upgrading particularly simple. Besides RGB and DVI inputs, the CRTtoLCD-7 multimedia and TV flat panel-controller from the aFLAT series offers composite and S-video inputs for PAL/NTSC signals and comprehensive video source support (Component YPbPr). It is therefore optimally equipped for video sources such as cameras and DVD players.

The Kontron CRTtoLCD-7 is available in a variety of versions. The flagship is the multimedia version, which also has component inputs (analog YPbPr). The “slimmed down” versions are designed as successors to the highly successful CRTtoLCD-2 and -3, since they are compatible in terms of dimensions, connector locations and functions. The controller is also available without video inputs, allowing tailored use. This version is limited to analog-RGB and DVI signal processing.

Top-of-the-line technology is used with Adaptive Motion Deinterlacing from Faroudja for the best possible display, particularly of rapidly moving images. The Kontron CRTtoLCD-7 allows the input and display of resolutions up to WUXGA, and thus also includes HDTV resolutions (e.g. 1080i = 1920 x 1080 or 720p = 1280 x720). The size and position-variable PIP function (Picture-In-Picture) allows simultaneous viewing of two image sources.

The feature set is completed by the option to include a remote control (corresponding to the Philips RC5 standard). A feature connector allows the connection of additional modules, for example the forthcoming TV-tuner module.

The flat panel controller is available with the FLEX32 (for TTL) or JILI30 (for LVDS) interfaces for TFT. The JILII30 interface allows the control of single and double port LVDS-TFTs up to a data width of 2x24 bits; FLEX32 allows the control of 18 bit-TTL flat panels.

A single 12V power supply is sufficient for the module. The power sequencing for the panel and the backlight support is generated on the controller.

Cable connection included in the kit
Since Kontron already offers a variety of panel cables, complete kits with cables can be offered for most common TFTs. As a rule, it is possible to adapt other types of flat panel on request and at low cost.

Convenient keypad for control via on-screen display
An OSD keypad (OSD = On Screen Display) that can be used for changing settings and controlling the special properties of the Kontron CRTtoLCD-7 is available for adjustments. Alternatively, OSD configuration can also be done very conveniently from a PC running Windows via the serial interface. Once settings are optimized, they can be saved as a file and called up at any time – and even for other panels, which is ideal for use in the production of large series, since it is not necessary to adjust every single controller manually. Individual adjustment of the different flat panels takes place, as is usual for Kontron, via special “panel files“, which guarantee an optimal display. Individual firmware adjustments – with the focus on customization – can also be made quickly and conveniently with a special tool. Incidentally, all new controllers in the aFLAT series now have the same look and feel. Control software (Windows OSD) and panel files can be downloaded from www.kontron-emea.com/flatpanel.