Overview

The NETHRA IMAGINGís NI-20xx family of high quality Image Processors allows handset designers to deliver digital still camera image quality along with todayís most in-demand features for mobile devices.

The core architecture of Nethraís ISP is based on its highly scalable real-time image processing pipeline that allows OEMs to develop a platform that is applicable to various imaging applications.

Image Processing Engine
The NI-20xx features a high quality real-time image processing engine. Though the solution is in the hardware, it is highly programmable. The device is specifically designed to provide high throughput from low cost sensors while keeping the cost and power low. CMOS image sensors are used in costsensitive applications, but they are inherently lower in quality when compared to CCD sensors. The proprietary image processing algorithms in the NI-20xx image pipeline directly address specific image quality issues of CMOS sensors adding much value to the Nethra solutions.

System Integration
The NI-20xx integrates a high performance 32-bit RISC CPU core. This eliminates the need for an external CPU thus making it an ideal solution for handheld consumer devices, such as mobile handsets and PDAs. In addition, sophisticated Auto Exposure, Auto White Balance and Auto Focus algorithms can be implemented on the camera module instead of loading the applications processor.

In particular, 64 KB flash memory is available in some devices allowing fast boot-up, and field upgrade of the module parameters. This allows module vendors to update sensor tuning parameters for easy sensor upgrade and fast time-to-market. In addition, the NI-2065/66 integrates all the necessary interface for motor control thus reducing the overall bill of materials for a camera module.

Applications
The NI-20xx is a high performance, high quality image processor for low-cost imaging applications with the primary function set in a camera module. The programmable image processor family is highly suitable for applications in mobile handsets and camera modules. However, our SOC solutions provide the performance, flexibility and low power needed for a wide range of digital consumer applications.