Plextek launches customisable core processor module for automotive and consumer electronics environments

Plextek already has one global in-vehicle equipment OEM customer which is currently designing the core processor module into its latest infotainment system, where it will support audio and video playback, analogue radio reception, GPS navigation and hands-free telephone calls.

At the heart of the Plextek module’s robust hardware platform is Freescale’s popular iMX31 processor incorporating an ARM11 core, 3D graphics engine and Atlas power management IC. The hardware platform also features 128MB Mobile DDR RAM, 64MB NAND FLASH memory, UART, SD, USB 2.0 and 18-bit RGB LCD interfaces, two I2S audio outputs, Video In/Video Out, keypad, touch screen rotary encoder inputs and iPod authentication.

Drawing on Plextek’s extensive Microsoft(R) Windows(R) Embedded software development expertise, the module utilises the WinCE 6.0 R2 operating system to the full. A robust Board Support Package is also available including power management support. The module also supports 16-bit PCM, AAC, MP3, WMA audio CODECS and a wide range of video CODECS including: MPEG-1 Part 2, MPEG-2 Part 2, H.263, MPEG-4 Part 2, MPEG-4 Part 10 (H.264, AVC), DivX and WMV.

“Our customisable core processor module is a flexible, yet robust and proven solution for the automotive and consumer electronics environment. In today’s tough economic climate it represents a cost effective and low risk approach for new product development,” said Gerard Smith, Director, Software Systems Group, Plextek. “The module has great potential to fulfill the needs of many diverse potential customers, especially those looking to achieve shorter development cycles for products requiring complex connected functionality and ultimately, rapid time to market.”

Plextek’s module complies with tough automotive standards including JASO D001-94 environmental testing methods for automotive electronic equipment, automotive standard 2004/104/EC, EN 60950 and EMC Standard EN 301 489-1.