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PalmCam - Digital Camera for PDA

The PalmCam is an experiment in using Mitsubishi Electric artificial retina (AR) chips as an accessory for a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA). The PalmCam experiment explores the use of a highly portable digital camera integrated into a personal digital assistant. The PalmCam uses an M64283FP AR chip as an imaging sensor, with an M16C microcontroller to produce the control signals, perform A/D conversion, and interface with the PDA serial communications line. We have developed PalmCam units in several form factors, to fit different PDA applications.

Background & Objective:  Increasing use of digital imaging integrated into communications and messaging will provide an increasing market for Mitsubishi imaging chips.

Technical Discussion:  The PalmCam is a generalized design for an imaging accessory for PDAs and other consumer electronics. PalmCams can be implemented in different form factors (two are shown in the photo above). PalmCams use a Mitsubishi Electric AR chip to sense an image, and a Mitsubishi M16C microcontroller to generate control signals for the AR, to convert the sensed image from analog voltage to a digital form, and to interface to the PDA or other consumer electronic device. To decrease costs, the PalmCam uses the on-board A/D converter built into the M16C. Additionally, the M16C can perform image processing on the image or produce a "movie".

Technology Area:  Computer Vision

Modification Date:  July 7, 2008