Silicon Image Debuts USB Type-C Port Controllers With MHL Alt Mode

Silicon Image, Inc. announced the SiI7023 and SiI7033, single-chip USB Type-C port controllers that include MHL Alternate Mode (‘Alt Mode’) for the USB Type-C specification, as well as port configuration switches.

These ICs have a fully integrated USB Type-C communication transceiver, adhering to the Power Delivery (PD) and Configuration Channel (CC) requirements defined in the USB Type-C related specifications. Device manufacturers can utilize these port controllers with integrated switches in order to deliver brilliant MHL 4K Ultra HD video, immersive audio, power, and data over the USB Type-C connector.

The Sil7023 has been designed to enable concurrent MHL and USB 2.0 support over a USB Type-C connector, while the Sil7033 adds the ability to support USB 3.0 signals over a USB Type-C connector for designs requiring USB 3.0 data connectivity. Both solutions work with any MHL transmitter and are compatible with more than 750 million existing MHL products already on the market. USB Type-C devices that support MHL Alt Mode will be able to connect to a large ecosystem of MHL TVs, monitors, AVRs, Blu-ray Disc players, projectors, set-top boxes and automotive products using USB Type-C to HDMI Type-A MHL cables and USB Type-C to superMHL cables. Mobile devices with USB Type-C MHL Alt Mode can also connect to HDMI legacy displays using adapters that support MHL-to-HDMI protocol conversion.

“We believe that enabling MHL over USB Type-C connectors will create exciting, new market opportunities by delivering ultra high-definition video and audio concurrently with USB to consumers,” said Cheng Hwee Chee, senior director, marketing, Silicon Image. “Silicon Image continues to be on the forefront of multimedia connectivity innovation creating value for smartphone and tablet manufacturers.“