July 21, 2015 – ams (Country Manager Jong-Deok Lee), a specialist in high-performance analog ICs and sensors, announced the launch of a new series of state-of-the-art optical sensor modules (Product Name: TMx4903). This optical sensor module series integrates various functions, including universal remote control (URC), barcode emulation, RGB color sensing, proximity, and 3D gesture recognition, into a low-profile 5.0x2.0x1.0mm package.

The highly integrated TMx4903 module provides cutting-edge technology for performing exciting new functions required by today's smartphones, while reducing board area requirements and lowering BOM costs. By integrating multiple optical sensing functions and IR LEDs into a single module, TMx4903 devices offer system designers greater flexibility, enabling simplified smartphone board layouts. Through a low-profile package, designers can meet consumer demands for sleeker, thinner, and aesthetically pleasing designs.

The TMD4903 and TMG4903 are modular variants of this series that perform accurate color and proximity detection functions and integrate an IRBeam IR pattern generator. The IR pattern generator emits a remote control beam pattern suitable for standard consumer products. The Unified Remote Control (URC) performance is also compatible with the Android™ Consumer IR Programming Interface for remote control applications on smartphones. The Mobeam™ 1D barcode emulator function used in retail POS terminals is also supported.

The TMG4903 device provides the industry's most advanced contactless IR gesture detection capabilities. ams's new 3D gesture technology can recognize complex hand movements and complements the simple 2D gesture detection capabilities in north-south and east-west directions supported by ams's first-generation gesture sensor, the TMG3992.

The TMx4903's new 3D gesture and proximity performance optimizes sensitivity and operating range while minimizing noise and power consumption by performing modular auto-adjustment of IR LED timing and power output. The TMx4903 incorporates innovative circuitry techniques to eliminate ambient light interference. The auto-correction function eliminates issues caused by noise and optical crosstalk. The performance of the highly integrated AI LED driver removes the burden on the application processor for controlling LED driving functions, thereby simplifying phone software implementation and reducing the processor load required for immediate gesture recognition.

Darrell Benke, Senior Product Marketing Manager at ams, stated, “Smartphones currently leading the market are known as products that integrate cutting-edge technology, functionality, and aesthetics. Using the TMD4903 or TMG4903 allows for a reduction in board area. This enables OEMs to establish new integration standards in the smartphone industry.”

TMD4903 and TMG4903 are currently available in mass production quantities. Based on an order quantity of 1,000 units, TMD4903 is priced at $2 per unit and TMG4903 at $2.50.

Evaluation boards for the TMD4903 and TMG4903 are available under limited conditions. For detailed information and to request samples, contact your local ams sales office or distributor, or refer to www.ams.com/Color-Sensor/TMD4903 and www.ams.com/Gesture-Sensor/TMG4903.