Programmable Single-Chip Platform Fuels Automotive Telematics

Based on the Blackfin Processor, which melds digital signal processing and microcontroller functionality onto a single core, the Car Telematics Platform is capable of functioning as an automobile's navigation, communication and entertainment system and promises cost reductions of at least 50% compared to current telematics systems. The single-chip, software-programmable platform includes support for Kada's Java 2 Micro Edition to ensure ease of programmability and interoperability and compatibility across a range of vehicle models. Integrated functions include GPS, dead reckoning, hands-free operation, noise reduction and echo cancellation, speech recognition, text-to-speech, Bluetooth connectivity, AM/FM decoding, and audio play/record of MP3 and Windows Media Audio (WMA) content. The platform relies on an embedded real-time operating system (RTOS) that allows multiple functions to run concurrently while sharing system resources. As it is programmable, the platform permits new software and updates to be installed without changing hardware. The platform comes as a hardware reference with the processor plus third-party software. Price is under $20 each/100,000. ANALOG DEVICES INC, Norwood, MA. (800) 262-5643.