Device Maker Looks to Expand HDMI Functionality Beyond AV

An HDMI device called cecTalker can connect, control and link devices with HDMI terminals to allow AV equipment to perform new operations, said manufacturer Socionext, whose HDMI controller IC is at the heart of the module. CecTalker uses Consumer Electronics Control to allow users to integrate HDMI-compliant devices from different manufacturers “and without the standard linkage functionalities,” said Socionext. It supports development platforms including PCs, Raspberry Pi, Arduino and Spresense and will be certified to the HDMI standard, capable of being used in stand-alone mode or built into other products with added features and applications. Applications include connecting audio and video equipment with smart appliances, building home IoT systems, and use with video streaming services, medical imaging and industrial applications, the company said. The devices are sampling now with volume production and shipping slated for January.