Chroma A040209 MIPI Signal Module

MIPI (Mobile Industry Processor Interface) is a specification defined by the MIPI Alliance for processors used in various mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. It aims to reduce issues like image noise, blurring, distortion, and video latency. The A040209 supports MIPI 4-Lane and 8-Lane outputs, with a maximum bandwidth of 12 Gbps (1.5 Gbps per lane). When paired with the Chroma 27014, it supports testing display resolutions of up to 4K@60Hz (with DSC Mode), offering users flexible testing options for various resolutions.

*MIPI is the Mobile Industry Processor Interface Alliance.

Color is represented as a triplet of red, green, and blue components, known as RGB, with each component ranging from 0 to 255. In RGB888 format, each component is 8 bits, giving a total color depth of 24 bits per pixel (2²⁴), which can display approximately 16.77 million colors. The A040209 allows users to customize and edit testing applications for RGB565, RGB666, and RGB888 color formats as needed.

*The curve and colored areas are for illustration only and are not drawn to scale.

The A040209 supports various MIPI signal modes for flexible data mapping configurations, including options for splitting, arranging, and combining display data. It allows users to configure 1/2/4/ 8 (4+4) Lane Mapping, with multiple pixel mode options such as left/right and Dot mapping, enabling a wide range of display testing applications.

The A040209 supports DSC (Display Stream Compression) for video stream compression. This feature allows the transmitter to compress image data (Encoder), enabling high-resolution output under lower bandwidth conditions. After compression, the displayed image remains visually lossless and low-latency. The receiver then decompresses the data (Decoder) for display and testing purposes. (optional)

The A040209 complies with the MIPI DCS V2.0 standard. Its associated FPD Master software supports 27 types of DCS (Display Command Set) and features both D-PHY Low-Power Mode and High-Speed Mode transmission. It provides a comprehensive and commonly used DCS command set by the display panel manufacturers. During panel testing, users can intuitively edit and output commands, freely customize and parameterize them, and send corresponding control commands to the panel under test in advance — significantly reducing testing time and enhancing production efficiency.

The Chroma A040209 is equipped with three independent programmable DC power supplies, VSP and IOVCC outputs: 1–6V/500mA max, and VSN output: -6 to -1V/500mA max. It also features built-in OVP (Overvoltage Protection), OCP (Overcurrent Protection), UVP (Undervoltage Protection), and UCP (Undercurrent Protection) mechanisms. Through the FPD Master software, users can edit voltage settings with a minimum adjustment of 0.1V/step, enabling stable, continuous DC voltage output and providing customizable power configuration to meet various testing requirements.

The system allows independent activation of power, signal, and control pins, with a minimum editable timing unit of 1ms. Users can freely configure the lead/lag timing for power, signal, and control outputs, as well as customize the shutdown sequence according to their specific testing requirements.

The A040209 features VDD Overvoltage Protection (OVP) and Overcurrent Protection (OCP). Users can set their own protection thresholds, and when the current or voltage of the device under test exceeds the defined limits during output, the protection mechanism is immediately activated to prevent damage to the product. To avoid false triggering of protection due to inrush current during power-up, the module includes a Protection Delay Time function, ensuring accurate and reliable testing.

The A040209 is equipped with VDD threshold – Undervoltage Protection (UVP) and Undercurrent Protection (UCP) functions, enabling effective real-time monitoring to verify whether the voltage and current of the device under test fall below the preset values during operation from start-up to shut down. For instance, this allows detection of components that do not meet their operating conditions or circuits functioning abnormally below their lower threshold limits.

Equipped with an intelligent fan system, the module monitors temperature variations in real time and automatically adjusts the fan speed. This reduces environmental noise while maintaining the device’s optimal operating temperature, thereby extending its service life.

Electrical Static Discharge (ESD) is a common issue that can cause instability, malfunction, or even damage to electronic products during normal operation. To prevent integrated circuits from being damaged by electrical static discharge during manufacturing or use, the A040209 complies with IEC/EN 61000-4-2 ESD protection standards (15kV Air/8kV Contact Discharge). It features built-in ESD protection circuitry, providing comprehensive protection to safeguard internal circuits from damage caused by ESD events.

During frequent testing, output connectors can often become damaged due to repeated cable replacement. To address this issue, the A040209 adopts a reinforced clamping plate design to secure the output connectors firmly to the main body. This structure effectively distributes external stress, reduces the risk of damage, and extends the overall service life of the module.

The A040209 adopts a standard 41-pin industrial connector, commonly used as an internal interface for display panels. With a reinforced structural design, it effectively distributes external stress, enhancing durability and reliability, particularly in applications that involve frequent module replacement.

The A040209 MIPI Signal Module features a push-and-rotate locking mechanism for secure installation within the Chroma Flat Panel Display Tester. This tool-free design allows operators to easily mount or remove the signal module by hand, greatly improving testing flexibility and troubleshooting efficiency.

Applications: panel manufacturers, driver IC design, repair centers, PCB substrate testing, automated test equipment manufacturers, IC reliability testing, demonstration, product verification, etc.