Freescale gears up for e-reader push with trio of I.MX50x processors

CHIP DESIGNER Freescale Semiconductor has announced a trio of I.MX50x processors designed for use in the e-reader and embedded consumer device market.

The I.MX502, I.MX503 and I.MX507 processors are built around ARM Cortex A8 cores and include hardware-based display controllers along with a new version of Freescale's MC34708 power management IC (PMIC) system to cut down on battery drain.

The chips are capable of supporting LCD displays with resolutions up to 1280x1024 and Freescale has teamed up with E Ink to put the chips in e-book readers and point of sale devices, and it will be releasing a reference design when the chips are released later in the year.

"E Ink is collaborating with Freescale to integrate hardware, simplify design and lower overall system costs," said Giovanni Mancini, director of product management for E Ink Holdings.

"This collaboration is creating new markets for ePaper/semiconductor solutions."

The basic model I.MX502 costs less than $10 in volume and is designed for vending machines and DECT phones. The I.MX503 is slightly more powerful and supports OpenVG acceleration, while the I.MX508 is being pitched for higher end devices.

"Freescale is delivering comprehensive, optimized solutions with power savings and flexible design features, allowing customers one-stop shopping, ease-of-use and quick time to market," said Ken Obuszewski, director of product marketing for Freescale's Multimedia Applications Division.

"Our new i.MX50 devices offer an outstanding solution for simplified display applications, and now with a comprehensive portfolio to choose from, customers can pick the best option for their specific product needs." µ