application stack, according to the companies.
(Click here for larger image)The design is based on Samsung's ARM9-based
244x mobile application processor SoCs (system-on-chips). The 244x SoCs have been used extensively within Windows CE-powered handheld GPS devices and PDAs, including Averatec's
Voya 320 GPS, E-TEN's
G500+ PDA/GPS, and Torq's
N100 PDA/GPS, and are part of Fiat's Windows CE-based
automotive infotainment platform. The SoCs typically integrate an ARM920 core along with an extensive set of on-chip functions, including MMU, NAND flash, and controllers for external memory, STN/TFT LCD panels, touchscreens, MMC/SD card slots, USB, analog I/O, and a camera interface.
Another key component of the CamNav for PND design is Brogent's CamNav multimedia application stack, said to combine a set of multimedia technologies with a "friendly and intuitive" UI (user interface) that enables a "pleasing photo/video taking experience on [PNDs]." The CamNav stack includes a "powerful" software-based MP4 and JPEG encoder/decoder engine that can reduce manufacturing costs by eliminating requirement for specialized multimedia chipsets, without sacrificing quality or performance, Brogent says.
Details on the reference design's camera module were not provided.
H.K.Lee, Director of CoAsia's Mobile Solution Division, stated, "Digital Video/Audio Recording and Capture application software will sharply extend application area of Portable Navigation Devices, combination of Camera and PND is very like to become next killer application after Camera Phone."
Taiwan-based
Brogent Technologies is a developer of mobile multimedia software, including functions for A/V codecs, image processing, and 3D image rendering.
Coasia Microelectronics, also based in Taiwan, is a distributor of semiconductor and other electronic components, including Samsung's 244x application processors, and also provides system design and integration and services.
The CamNav for PND reference design appears to be available now. Pricing and licensing terms for the hardware and software aspects of the design were not disclosed.
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