The DMD is a spatial light modulator, which reflects incoming light from an illumination source to one of two directions, with the primary direction being into a projection or collection optic. Each application is derived primarily from the optical architecture of the system and the format of the data being used.

The DLP500YX DMD is controlled by two DLPC900 controllers. The DMD itself receives bit planes through a 2xLVDS input data bus and, when input control commands dictate, activates the controls which update the mechanical state of the DMD mirrors. In combination with the DLPC900 Controllers, the chipset enables four unique modes of system level operation:

• Video Mode - 24 bit video signals presented to inputs of the DLPC900 Controllers appear on the DMD. The DMD mirrors are updated in a PWM fashion to construct the 24 bit video data. This mode is similar to standard DLP Display projector use cases.
• Video Pattern Mode - the user can define periods of time for specific patterns to be displayed on the DMD. Those patterns are provided via the input video interface and are constrained to input video timing parameters. This mode is optimal for when the data to be presented is not known in advance of operation, or input data needs to be streamed or updated based on real-time processing conditions.
• Pre-stored Pattern Mode - the user can define the patterns in advance and build the pattern data into an on-board flash memory. Upon power up, the DLPC900 controllers immediately start reading and displaying those patterns. This mode is typically used in applications where the patterns to be used are known in advance and the patterns can all fit in the external flash memory. This mode typically provides the fastest pattern update rates.
• Pattern-on-the-Fly Pattern Mode - the user can download and update pattern data over the DLPC900 input USB data interface. This allows an external processor to modify and update patterns based on external processing decisions. This mode also provides streaming capability similar to the Video Pattern Mode except that the user would need to take into account delays involved with USB transmission of pattern data and control information.

The DLP500YX provides solutions for many varied applications including structured light (3-D machine vision), 3-D printing, information projection, and lithography.

The DLP500YX contains the most recent breakthrough micromirror technology called the TRP pixel. With a smaller pixel pitch of 5.4 μm and increased tilt angle of 17 degrees, TRP chipsets enable higher resolution in a smaller form factor while maintaining high optical efficiency. DLP chipsets are a great fit for any system that requires high resolution and high output projection imaging.