OMAP

OMAP (Open Multimedia Applications Platform) is a series of image signal processors (ISP) developed by Texas Instruments. They are designed to be used in smartphones, tablet computers, and other mobile devices to manage multimedia tasks such as audio processing, video processing, and digital imaging. OMAP processors are known for their high performance and low power consumption, making them suitable for mobile applications where battery life is critical.

Overview

OMAP devices generally integrate a microprocessor with one or more digital signal processors (DSPs) to optimize the processing of multimedia content. This architecture allows for efficient handling of tasks such as 3D graphics, audio codecs, video codecs, and image processing. The OMAP family includes several series, each targeting different levels of the mobile market, from basic smartphones to high-end multimedia devices.

History

The OMAP project was initiated by Texas Instruments in the late 1990s with the goal of developing a platform for mobile multimedia applications. Over the years, OMAP processors have been incorporated into a wide range of devices, from Nokia's early smartphones to Android tablets. Despite their success in the mobile market, Texas Instruments announced in 2012 that it would shift its focus away from OMAP processors for smartphones and tablets, aiming instead to target the processors for broader markets such as automotive, industrial automation, and embedded systems.

Architecture

OMAP processors typically feature a dual-core architecture, with one ARM-based microprocessor and one or more DSPs. This design allows the ARM core to handle general-purpose computing tasks, while the DSPs are optimized for processing multimedia content. Some higher-end OMAP models also include dedicated hardware for specific tasks, such as graphics processing units (GPUs) for enhanced 3D graphics performance.

Applications

OMAP processors have been used in a variety of devices and applications, including:

• Smartphones and tablet computers for general multimedia processing
• Digital cameras and camcorders for image and video processing
• Automotive navigation systems for in-vehicle entertainment and information
• Portable media players for audio and video playback

Future of OMAP

While Texas Instruments has reduced its focus on the smartphone and tablet market, the OMAP technology continues to evolve and find applications in other areas. The flexibility and performance of OMAP processors make them suitable for a wide range of multimedia applications beyond mobile devices, including automotive systems, industrial automation, and embedded systems.

See Also

• Digital signal processor
• ARM architecture
• Mobile processor
• Embedded system