A multi-mode video driver for a high resolution LCoS display

This paper describes the design of a display driver for Liquid Crystal on Silicon (LCoS) microdisplays. These are high resolution reflective display devices which allow up to 1280x1024 pixels on an area of 3.75cm2, and are typically refreshed at 120Hz. The required driver consists of a digital section capable of taking the common display formats such as SVGA and new formats, SXGA, and processing these to a common 120HzRGB signal, requiring an output rate of 160 mega-pixels/second. This signal is then converted to a 10 bit accurate analog current which, when amplified, controls the LCoS device. This paper will discuss the new features added in the digital domain and the challenges of third-party IP integration of analog components.