Intelligent display modules gain connectivity expansion options

4D Systems has introduced the modules-on-the-go (MOTG) series, which provides a simple plug-and-play interface to their gen4 range of DIABLO16 and PICASO intelligent display modules. Responding to demand for additional display-module interface and communication capabilities, the MOTG series has been designed specifically to satisfy customer need. In providing this connectivity 4D Systems has developed the Universal MOTG Interface (UMI), which is published as an open standard. Initially the range comprises four modules, providing WiFi, Bluetooth (BLE), RS232 or RS485 connectivity. The modules plug into an interface board that also links to either a gen4 DIABLO16 or PICASO display. A fifth MOTG module adds MP3 playback functionality. The MOTG approach provides an extremely quick and convenient method of adding a host of low-profile connectivity options to the gen4 series of display modules. It also opens up the use of the display modules in a broad range of embedded applications. By developing the UMI as an open standard, 4D Systems encourages developers to implement it in any design. Making this approach accessible to any embedded design is the MOTG-BREADTOOTH prototyping board, which allows the use of any MOTG module with virtually any host.