Keyboard Encoder/Power Management IC for Windows CE
NEW YORK — July 17, 1997 — USAR Systems announces the first keyboard encoder designed specifically for hand-held PCs (H/PCs) and single-board computers running Microsoft's Windows CE(R) operating system. The SpiCoder(TM) IC not only provides compatibility to the Windows CE keyboard specification, it also offers built-in power management features and special keyboard modes which permit it to work in harmony with Windows CE(R). These, coupled with its patented "zero" power operation, allow the SPICoder(TM) to minimize system battery drain, transparently and without system intervention. Real estate use is also minimized. The IC utilizes the smallest 48-pin package ever, measuring 7mm X 7mm with a 0.5mm pitch.
Taking advantage of the software flexibility provided by Windows CE(R), the off-the-shelf SPICoder(TM) offers a new, versatile and high-reliability packet-based two-way protocol. Communication to the host system is achieved over the SPI channel. The encoder also offers programmable features for wake-up keys and general purpose I/O pins, allowing designers the flexibility they need to support specific applications. The IC will scan, debounce and encode an 8 X 12 keyboard matrix and provide direct drive for two status LEDs.
The SPICoder(TM) has been successfully implemented in a variety of hand-held systems, including Philip's Velo Personal Digital Assistant. Full Datasheets and an Evaluation Board are available.
The SpiCoder(TM) is the newest member of USAR's family of products for hand-held and battery-operated systems. This family includes complete embedded mouse solutions, like the HulaPoint(TM) "joystick for your finger" and the PixiPoint(TM) miniature mouse, as well as zero power keyboard encoders, such as the PlexiCoder, and interfaces for Smart Batteries.
USAR designs and produces a complete line of electronics specifically for the human/computer interface, including keyboard and pointing device encoder ICs and boards, Protocol Interpreters and motherboard controllers. USAR offers system integrators, OEMs and portable system manufacturers parts for every type of User Input Device to work with any type of platform, including PS/2, Apple, Sun, Serial, HP, DEC, I2C and the new open architecture standards Universal Serial Bus (USB) and System Management Bus (SMBus).
For more [email protected] or visit our web site at http://www.usar.com.
All Trademarks utilized in this document are the sole property of their respective owners.
CONTACT:
Ellen Gooch
USAR Systems
(T) 212.226.2042 ext. 228
(F) 212.226.3215
[email protected]
www.usar.com