Provides for robust multi-touch functionality in PCs, laptops and other devices
CALGARY, Alberta --- June 3, 2009 --- SMART Technologies announces that it has licensed its patented DViT™ (Digital Vision Touch) technology and related know-how to PixArt Imaging Inc. of Taiwan. PixArt has been working diligently with a major Asian ODM (original design manufacturer) to build ASICs (application specific integrated circuits) that integrate touch capability in personal computers and laptops. This global license allows for high performance touch without the need for special tools. It is anticipated that products incorporating the licensed technology will be available in time for the holiday buying season in December 2009.
SMART’s proprietary DViT technology enables cost-effective touch functionality in a wide range of devices, including flat-panel displays, interactive whiteboards and touch tables. PixArt develops CMOS (complementary metal-oxide semiconductor) image sensors and related IC (integrated circuit) design for applications in optical mouse devices, interactive optical game consoles, digital cameras and mobile phones, and has leveraged this expertise to adapt DViT technology for use in personal computers. Building on touch innovations from SMART, the collaboration between SMART and PixArt capitalizes on the strength of both companies to provide users with an easier, more intuitive way to interact with their PCs.
”Using CMOS for the touch solution, compared to traditional resistors, capacitors or other touch solutions, has the benefits of low cost, long endurance, and high yield rate in manufacture and maintenance,” says Sen Huang, PixArt’s CEO. “SMART is a pioneer in optical touch and related technology, and PixArt is pleased to form a cooperative relationship with SMART. We will devote ourselves to designing better, smarter and cost effective optical ICs for PCs, notebooks and all kinds of applications.”
“The benefits of touch functionality are well documented, and touch is becoming a must-have function, whether in a phone, in a camera or on a screen,” says Nancy Knowlton, SMART’s CEO. “SMART has been a leader in creating and developing touch for more than 20 years, so forming a relationship with PixArt – experts in CMOS chip design – harnesses the strengths of both companies to provide a great user experience for customers.”
About PixArt
PixArt was founded in July 1998 and is an affiliate of United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC). PixArt specializes in CMOS image sensors and human interface applications, IC design, research, production, and sales and has extensive experience in analog IC design, image sensor IC design, and image processing IC design, and is currently one of the leading global providers of CMOS image sensors.
