Texas Instruments Integrates Four Video Decoders onto a Single Chip

Bringing a high-performance, cost-efficient solution to multi-input video applications such as video surveillance, Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) (NYSE: TXN) today introduced a new analog-to-digital (A/D) video decoder that combines four independent video decoders into a single chip. With its high level of integration, the new
TVP5154 quad A/D video decoder simplifies layout and saves up to 25 percent in board space over previous products. In addition, each channel of the
TVP5154 features a programmable horizontal/vertical (H/V) scaler that can offload processing from associated video processors, giving developers additional headroom for value-added algorithms. For more information, visit http://focus.ti.com/docs/prod/folders/print/tvp5154.html.

The growth of the security and surveillance market has fueled demand for the inexpensive format conversion of video captured by traditional analog cameras. The TVP5154 quad-channel video decoder is designed to meet this demand, by employing the proven architecture of TI’s successful TVP5150AM1 single-channel video decoder in a highly integrated, feature-rich new device. Accepting two composite inputs per decoder for a total of up to eight separate camera inputs, the TVP5154 converts NTSC, PAL and SECAM formats to digital video output streams. Patented technology helps improve the quality of weak, noisy or unstable signals, and additional support is provided for non-standard video signals. The device operates as a front end for a wide variety of video processing engines and is designed for direct connection to TI’s TMS320DM642 digital signal processor (DSP)-based video processor.

“The TVP5154 quad decoder addresses the needs of the multi-channel video security market by reducing space and cost while improving quality,” said Yvonne Cager, video solutions business manager, TI. “Operating seamlessly with TI’s DM642 video processor, the TVP5154 saves processing overhead which allows our customers to introduce new value-added functionality to their products.”

Flexible Design Options
The TVP5154 quad video decoder provides features that add flexibility and enhance performance in security applications. The device integrates four independent H/V scalers that permit downscaling of image outputs and provide a variety of options for single or simultaneous output of full-scale and down-scaled images. The TVP5154 takes on scaling functions that would otherwise consume valuable video processor capacity. In the DM642, for example, TVP5154 scaling can free from 10 to 15 percent of the processing load, allowing developers to utilize the extra processing power for value-added algorithms such as de-interlacing and object recognition.

In order to simplify control communications, reduce board space and layout complexity, the TVP5154 features four dedicated I2C addresses, which allow for up to four TVP5154 devices (16 video channels) on a single I2C bus. In addition, the device can program all four of the integrated video decoders of the TVP5154 simultaneously or individually. Furthermore, only one
14.31818 crystal is required to drive each TVP5154, saving additional board space and cost.

The TVP5154 supports a fast lock mode, which enables the decoder to switch from video inputs in less than 2.5 fields. When switching between inputs, the gain and offset settings of the current input are stored, improving the locking speed and automatic gain control (AGC) convergence time. A stable sync output feature allows for a fixed number of lines during active video, ensuring a stable output signal.

Availability, Packaging and Pricing
The TVP5154 quad video decoder is in production today and is available through TI and authorized distributors. The device is packaged in a space-saving 16mm x 16mm, 128-pin low-profile quad flatpack (LQFP). Pricing is $9.00 per unit in quantities of 1,000 units.

The TVP5154 evaluation module (EVM) with the DM642 video processor provides a complete evaluation platform with integrated DSP code, Windows® control software, and a high-quality encoder daughter card for video output. The easy-to-use control software provides one-click settings for a variety of standard downscaled resolutions, including VGA, QVGA, CIF, QCIF and SIF, among others. The EVM is scheduled for release by the end of April, 2006, with pricing planned at $649 per unit.