Optical sensing modules offer exciting mobile capabilities

21st July 2015

Barney Scott

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ams has launched the TMx4903 series of advanced optical sensing modules, integrating multiple functions including universal remote control, barcode emulation, RGB colour sensing, proximity and 3D gesture detection in a 5.0x2.0x1.0mm package. The high level of integration in the TMx4903 modules reduces PCB space requirements and lowers BOM cost while delivering the exciting capabilities expected of today’s smartphones

By integrating multiple optical sensing functions, and an IR LED in a module, the TMx4903 devices help to simplify smartphone board layouts giving greater flexibility to system designers. The low-profile package also helps designers to meet consumer demand for sleeker, slimmer and more aesthetically pleasing smartphone designs.

The module variants in the series, the TMD4903 and TMG4903, perform accurate colour and proximity sensing, and integrate an IRBeam IR pattern generator. The IR pattern generator emits remote control beam patterns for any standards-compliant consumer product. The URC capability is also compatible with the Android Consumer.IR programming interface for remote-control applications on smartphones. Mobeam 1D barcode emulation for use at retail POS terminals is also supported.

The TMG4903 device also provides the industry’s most advanced touchless IR gesture-sensing capability. ams’ 3D gesture technology enables the recognition of complex hand gestures, supplemen-ting simple north-south and east-west 2D gestures supported by ams’ 1^stgen TMG3992 gesture sensor.

The TMx4903 3D gesture and proximity capability draws on the modules’ automatic adjustment of the IR LED’s timing and power output, minimising noise and power consumption while optimising sensitivity and dynamic range. The TMx4903 incorporates innovative circuit techniques which reject ambient light noise, and automatic calibration removes electrical artifacts caused by noise and optical cross-talk.

This integrated intelligent LED drive capability eliminates the requirement for the application processor to control LED driving functions which simplifies the phone’s software implementation and reduces processing capability required for instantaneous gesture recognition.

‘Today’s leading smartphones are known for integrating cutting-edge technology, functionality and aesthetics. The space savings enabled by the use of the TMD4903 or TMG4903 help OEMs to set standards of integration in the smartphone industry’, said Darrell Benke, Senior Product Marketing Manager, ams.

The TMD4903 and TMG4903 are available now in production volumes. Unit pricing for the TMD4903 is $2.00 and the the TMG4903 is $2.50 in order quantities of 1,000. Evaluation boards for the TMD4903 and TMG4903 are available for qualified opportunities.