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EEPROM-Programmable TFT VCOM Calibrator with I2C Interface
SUNNYVALE, CA-April 21, 2005-Maxim Integrated Products (NASDAQ: MXIM) introduces the MAX8738, an I2C*-programmable VCOM-adjustment solution for thin-film transistor (TFT) liquid-crystal displays (LCDs). The MAX8738 simplifies the labor-intensive VCOM-adjustment process and replaces mechanical potentiometers, which significantly reduces labor costs, increases reliability, and enables automation.
The MAX8738 calibrator attaches to an external resistive voltage-divider and sinks a programmable current to set the VCOM voltage level. An internal 7-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC) controls the sink current. The DAC is ratiometric relative to AVDD, and is guaranteed to be monotonic over all operating conditions. This VCOM calibrator device includes an EEPROM to store the desired VCOM voltage level. The EEPROM can be programmed repeatedly, giving TFT LCD manufacturers the flexibility to calibrate the display panel as many times as the manufacturing process requires.
The MAX8738 features a 2-wire I2C interface for DAC adjustment commands and EEPROM programming. Because the I2C interface utilizes the existing I2C bus on the LCD panel connector, no additional panel connector pins are required.
The MAX8738 calibrator is available in an 8-pin µMAX® package. Prices start at $1.75 (1000-up, FOB USA). To reduce design time, a pre-assembled MAX8738 evaluation kit is available with recommended external components.
Note: the MAX1512 is a similar product, but with a one-wire interface. The MAX1512 is recommended for applications with no existing I2C interface.
µMAX is a registered trademark of Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.
*Purchase of I2C components from Maxim Integrated Products, Inc., or one of its sublicensed Associated Companies, conveys a license under the Philips I2C Patent Rights to use these components in an I2C system, provided that the system conforms to the I2C Standard Specification defined by Philips.
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