This application note explores the four key display interfaces used by Sitara™ Processors in digital display systems: Display Parallel Interface (DPI), Display Serial Interface (DSI), OpenLDI/Low Voltage Differential Signaling (LVDS), and Embedded DisplayPort (eDP) The document provides an overview of these interfaces, their benefits, and application areas.
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The four key display interfaces used by Sitara Processors in digital display systems are described in the following sections.
Display Parallel Interface (DPI) is a digital interface technology that connects source graphics devices to display panels. DPI is parallel, transmitting each individual pixel's color data on different wires. DPI is simple and low-cost, making DPI designed for applications that require communication between graphics sources and displays.
DPI offers a good data rate, due to their parallel nature, making them designed for low-resolution display systems. However, DPI also requires more physical connections and wiring than other interfaces, increasing complexity and design footprint. DPI interfaces are commonly used in low-cost panels designed for Factory Automation and Control Systems.
Display Serial Interface (DSI) is a high-speed serial interface developed by the MIPI Alliance. DSI is commonly used in mobile devices such as smart phones, tablets, and some laptops due to the power efficiency and reduced pin count compared to DPI.
DSI uses differential signaling to transmit data, which enhances noise immunity and allows for longer transmission distances. DSI also supports command mode, allowing the display to remain in standby mode and only update when changes occur, further saving power.
Furthermore, DSI might not support as high resolution or color depth as LVDS.