Which Microcontroller to choose for Ethernet and HDMI application?

[samy03]

Hi again,

I think we all kind of overlooked the solution you were initially suggesting. I didn't know the SiI9022.
More info there: http://www.latticesemi.com/en/Products/ASSPs/MobileHDMITransmitters.aspx
Looks like we need to contact sales to get ahold of the datasheet? So it's hard to give very informed feedback on this solution.

Just a couple things that might be a problem:

• The STM32F429's LCD controller supports up to XGA resolution. The SiI9022 is advertised for full hd (1080p) resolution. I have no idea if it supports other resolutions and/or can do scaling, but I suspect it may not. I that case, it won't work. You may have more info on that though, if you have the datasheet, let us know.
• I've never used the STM32F4 series LCD controllers. I don't know exactly what can be done with them. XGA resolution (1024x768) in 24-bit RGB would require a 2.25 MBytes framebuffer, and surely the STM32F4 uCs don't have that kind of embedded RAM to begin with, so I wonder if the LCD controller is not supposed to be used with LCD panels with integrated controllers/framebuffers. And I would guess the SiI9022 would need a "scanline", 24-bit output. Not sure this is what the STM32F4 provides. You really have to check.

Again, I don't have enough info on SiI9022 and have not dug enough into the STM32F4 series LCD controllers, so this could very well work, but those are at least points to consider before diving into this.

On top of that, since you are cautious about long-term availability, I'm not sure how long the SiI9022 is supposed to be supported by Lattice.

One option if you still want this kind of architecture with less dependency on supply and more flexibility on specs would be to use an FPGA for the HDMI part, and either write your own controller or use existing IPs.

If not Sil9022, then I will use TDA19988BHN, as this model of TDA19988 does not have HDCP and will not require any licensing.

[cdev]

This is an interesting data point!

https://blog.danman.eu/new-version-of-lenkeng-hdmi-over-ip-extender-lkv373a/

also:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1600&v=SAvGylthpkU

[NiHaoMike]

There exist advanced HDMI switches that support text overlay and even picture in picture. Not sure where to find one that has a public datasheet.

[mikeselectricstuff]

I've never used the STM32F4 series LCD controllers. I don't know exactly what can be done with them. XGA resolution (1024x768) in 24-bit RGB would require a 2.25 MBytes framebuffer, and surely the STM32F4 uCs don't have that kind of embedded RAM to begin with.

Again, look at the PIC32MZ DA - it has 32MBytes onboard specifically for this sort of application.

One option if you still want this kind of architecture with less dependency on supply and more flexibility on specs would be to use an FPGA for the HDMI part, and either write your own controller or use existing IPs.

Yes - Spartan6 will do HDMI natively. You could use the Wiznet W5500 to simplify the networking side of things.
You'd still have to add RAM for a framebuffer, though if it was purely text you may be able to renderfont data on the fly to avoid the need for a full pixel buffer

[samy03]

I think I am gonna go with AM335x series and use Beaglebone Black as a development board for Embedded Linux. I know Embedded Linux is going to be a challenge for a person like me who has always worked on 8/16 bit micro-controllers, but I am willing to tackle it and step up my game!

I am also looking for Embedded Linux training classes/workshops, so any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

[rsjsouza]

There are a few training resources online for this with varying degrees of quality.

One resource (Udemy) that some folks around here tend to consider highly is below:
https://www.udemy.com/embedded-linux-step-by-step-using-beaglebone/

(I am not affiliated to the company above)

Another resource from one of the "owners" of the BeagleBone is below, but it is a bit more applications oriented instead of a step-by-step method:
https://www.element14.com/community/docs/DOC-78585/l/beaglebone-black-webinar-series

[Kjelt]

Buy some books, there is one for the Beagle from Derek Molloy and this one should also be pretty good:
https://www.amazon.com/Mastering-Embedded-Linux-Programming-potential/dp/1787283283/

[samy03]

Thanks guys! I will check em out