New SoCs Implement 3D Graphics as High-End Version of the Successful 2D Cluster MCU Series
As the use of color LCD panels in instrument cluster systems becomes more widespread, gauge control and graphics display are being combined even in smaller and medium size cars. The trend towards “gauge-less” displays is already progressing in high-end cars, where visibility and comfort are desired, and attractive, easy to see displays using 3D graphics on large, high-resolution panels are seen as one aspect of a car’s individuality. In the future, display size and resolution are expected to continue increasing, even in the graphics displays used in low- to mid-end cars, along with the use of cluster systems that provide 3D graphics similar to that used in high-end cars.
The R-Car D1 provides both the functionality and the performance to overcome these issues and furthermore, since Renesas users can take advantage of the R-Car Consortium ecosystem that consists of over 170 companies, they will be able to develop 3D graphics cluster systems quickly. Renesas will promote the more widespread use of 3D graphics systems by implementing this instrument cluster systems.
The Renesas R-Car Family of SoCs implements high-functionality human machine interfaces (HMI) for high-end automotive cockpit systems. Renesas also offers gauge control support through its RH850/D1x microcontrollers (MCUs) that are also ideal for entry-level and mid-range automotive systems.
Key features of the R-Car D1 Series:
(1) 3D graphics cluster systems can be developed easily by cooperating with Renesas partners
(2) Enables rapid startup for instrument cluster systems
(3) Driver safety protection and car hacking prevention by the provision of functional safety and security solutions
(4) Superlative system flexibility and ease of design made possible by the R-Car D1 supporting a wide range of communication and network types
(5) Development assets from the 2D graphics cluster RH850/D1x can be applied
Availability
Samples of the R-Car D1 Series are available now. Mass production is scheduled to begin in March 2017 and is expected to reach a volume of 100,000 units per month by March 2018. (Availability is subject to change without notice.)
About Renesas Electronics Corporation
Renesas Electronics Corporation (TSE: 6723), the world’s number one supplier of microcontrollers, is a premier supplier of advanced semiconductor solutions including microcontrollers, SoC solutions and a broad-range of analog and power devices. Business operations began as Renesas Electronics in April 2010 through the integration of NEC Electronics Corporation and Renesas Technology Corp., with operations spanning research, development, design and manufacturing for a wide range of applications. Headquartered in Japan, Renesas Electronics has subsidiaries in 20 countries worldwide. More information can be found at www.renesas.com.
