Microcontrollers have long been relied upon for their efficient and low-power performance, but when it comes to graphics optimization, there have been limitations. However, STMicroelectronics is now breaking new ground with the announcement of the NeoChromVG GPU – the first vector graphics accelerator for general-purpose microcontrollers.
The NeoChromVG GPU builds on the success of the Neochrom GPU, launched in 2023, and takes vector graphics to the next level by introducing a hardware unit that accelerates vector graphics computations, such as quadratic Bézier curves and Bézier tessellation. This enhancement allows for rapid drawing of vector graphics on screens, reducing the memory footprint of embedded systems.
One of the main reasons ST decided to develop this specific hardware IP is the increasing demand from customers to reduce their dependency on external flash modules. With the memory market expected to experience volatility and higher prices in the coming years, many companies are looking for alternatives to external NAND, and the NeoChromVG GPU offers a viable solution.
By integrating the NeoChromVG GPU into the new STM32U5G9 and STM32U5F9 microcontrollers, ST has created a powerful tool for developers to optimize their user interfaces. With 3MB of RAM and 4MB of dual-bank flash, these microcontrollers enable some companies to transition to a single-chip design without the need for external memory. For others, the increased internal memory and vector graphics support allow for the use of smaller NAND devices, simplifying PCB design and reducing costs.
To ensure developers can easily adopt vector graphics, ST is providing rapid prototyping tools such as the STM32U5G9J-DK and STM32U5G9J-DK2, along with a UI demo showcasing the capabilities of vector graphics. ST’s partner, Riverdi, will also offer a model with the STM32U5G9 to further support developers in leveraging the vector graphics accelerator.
This breakthrough in graphics optimization builds on the success of Chrom-ART, ST’s 2D accelerator embedded in previous STM32 MCUs. NeoChromGPU takes the concept even further, offering a greater scope of optimizations and supporting animations. What used to require a desktop PC GPU card can now be achieved on a microcontroller.
With the integration of NeoChromVG GPU into the TouchGFX ecosystem, developers can seamlessly incorporate this new technology into their projects. TouchGFX Designer, Simulator, and Generator have all been updated to support NeoChromVG GPU, showcasing its impact on frame rate and offering a cohesive ecosystem for developers.
The NeoChromVG GPU represents a significant step forward in graphics optimization for microcontrollers. By enabling developers to reduce their memory footprint and leverage vector graphics, STMicroelectronics is empowering makers to create even more streamlined and efficient embedded systems.
FAQ Section:
1. What is the NeoChromVG GPU?
The NeoChromVG GPU is the first vector graphics accelerator specifically designed for general-purpose microcontrollers. It accelerates vector graphics computations, allowing for rapid drawing of vector graphics on screens and reducing the memory footprint of embedded systems.
2. How does the NeoChromVG GPU benefit developers?
By integrating the NeoChromVG GPU into microcontrollers such as the STM32U5G9 and STM32U5F9, developers can optimize their user interfaces and reduce dependence on external flash modules. This opens up possibilities for single-chip designs, smaller NAND devices, simplified PCB designs, and cost reductions.
3. What tools and support are available for developers?
ST provides rapid prototyping tools like the STM32U5G9J-DK and STM32U5G9J-DK2, along with a UI demo showcasing the capabilities of vector graphics. ST’s partner, Riverdi, also offers a model with the STM32U5G9 to support developers in leveraging the vector graphics accelerator.
Definitions:
1. Microcontrollers: Small computer systems on a single integrated circuit chip that are designed to control embedded systems.
2. Vector Graphics: A type of computer graphics that use geometrical primitives such as points, lines, and curves to represent images.
3. Bézier Curves: A mathematical model used to represent smooth curves in computer graphics by specifying control points.
4. Bézier Tessellation: The process of subdividing a Bézier curve or surface into smaller components to improve rendering.
5. External Flash Modules: Additional memory modules that are connected externally to a microcontroller to expand its storage capacity.
6. Hardware IP: Intellectual property related to hardware components, such as designs, patents, and processes.
7. NAND: A type of non-volatile storage technology commonly used in flash memory devices.
8. PCB Design: The process of designing printed circuit boards that connect and support electronic components.
9. Frame Rate: The frequency at which images are displayed on a screen, usually measured in frames per second (FPS).
Related Links:
– STMicroelectronics
– TouchGFX
– Riverdi
The source of the article is from the blog anexartiti.gr