Industry HDMI Alt Mode over USB-C connector solution for next-generation devices

Cypress have announced a complete solution for USB-C to native HDMI connections without adapters or converters. It is claimed to be the world’s first. Based on Cypress EZ-PD USB-C controllers, the solution allows next-generation laptops, smartphones, tablets, digital cameras and other HDMI-enabled sources with USB-C connectors to connect directly to HDMI-enabled displays, including HD and 4K televisions, using only a simple USB-C to HDMI cable. The EZ-PD controllers all now support HDMI Alternate Mode for USB Type-C, along with USB Type-C standard support for audio, video and data protocols, as well as USB PD for fast charging. All HD and 4K televisions include HDMI connections, but connecting non-HDMI-enabled source devices requires adapters or converters that do not enable all native HDMI features. With the Cypress HDMI Alternate Mode solution, source device manufacturers can now utilize native HDMI features via USB Type-C connectors. “At Panasonic, we viewed the versatility of USB-C as an opportunity to expand the connectivity of our HDMI-enabled displays, and we worked closely with Cypress and their USB-C experts to support HDMI Alt Mode,” said Naoshi Usuki, R&D director at Panasonic. “Our HDMI alt mode solution adds to Cypress’ track record of industry firsts for USB-C and power delivery, thanks to the programmability of our EZ-PD controllers and years of USB know-how,” said Ajay Srikrishna, vice president of the Wired Connectivity Business Unit at Cypress. “The HDMI Alt Mode for USB-C will result in more smartphones, tablets and laptops incorporating HDMI audio and video technology over the USB-C connector, which will in turn help add to the nearly six billion HDMI devices that have shipped worldwide,” said Rob Tobias, President at HDMI Licensing Administrator, Inc. “We are pleased that Cypress has swiftly brought their HDMI Alt Mode solution to the market so developers can implement this user-friendly capability for consumers.” CES, Booth 20930, South Hall 1