Wi-Fi Enabled E-Paper Show Reference Design

The only-chip wi-fi Digital Paper Show answer makes use of Wi-Fi know-how, permitting straightforward updates by distant upkeep in IoT functions.

Wi-Fi-enabledWi-Fi Digital Paper Shows (EPDs) are more and more necessary in in the present day’s digital panorama, providing vital benefits that meet the calls for of recent know-how functions. These shows mix low energy consumption—utilizing power solely throughout content material updates—with the flexibility to remotely change show content material, making them supreme for varied functions similar to retail signage, info boards, and client gadgets like e-readers. Built-in into the Web of Issues (IoT) ecosystem, these shows can talk with different gadgets to offer well timed and dynamic content material updates, enhancing operational effectivity and person expertise whereas supporting environmental sustainability by decreasing paper use. The reference design from Texas Devices (TI) showcases a single-chip answer for a wi-fi Digital Paper Show (EPD) utilizing Wi-Fi know-how. 

EPD shows, identified for his or her low-power wants, require a approach for customers to replace show info simply. This method permits person management by distant upkeep, a vital function within the increasing Industrial Web of Issues (IoT) market. The design incorporates the low-power TI SimpleLink Wi-Fi CC3200 wi-fi MCU, which helps operation on two AA batteries for a number of months to over a 12 months, relying on utilization. Outfitted with an built-in microcontroller and Wi-Fi community processor, this CC3200-based design facilitates EPD show administration remotely or domestically through the MQTT protocol.

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The design’s featured functions embody digital shelf labels, title tags, indoor signage, and wearables. These various makes use of spotlight the know-how’s versatility and adaptableness in varied settings, from retail environments to private identification and indoor directional aids.

The reference design boasts a number of key options, together with low energy consumption appropriate for battery-powered operations, cloud connectivity for distant administration, and native management for on-site changes. It helps 5 completely different show sizes and permits for customized graphics, enhancing visible enchantment and flexibility. Moreover, it affords a broadcast content material possibility, enabling simultaneous updates throughout a number of shows.

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Customers can replace a number of EPD panels for distant operations, no matter their bodily location or measurement, by assigning them the identical identifier. This function is especially precious in eventualities similar to digital shelf labelling, the place pricing info must be up to date throughout a number of areas concurrently.

From an influence administration standpoint, this design leverages a key benefit of EPD know-how—no energy consumption between updates. The SimpleLink gadget can preserve a continuing connection for instant response updates or intermittently at set intervals to minimise energy utilization and lengthen battery life. The CC3200’s Cortex M4 MCU drives the EPD show shortly and effectively, making certain fast updates and contributing to the system’s total low energy consumption.

TI has examined this reference design. It comes with a invoice of supplies (BOM), schematics, meeting drawing, printed circuit board (PCB) structure, and extra. The corporate’s web site has further knowledge concerning the reference design. To learn extra about this reference design, click on right here.