The DP8473AN is a high-performance CRT controller designed for use in raster-scanned CRT display systems. Manufactured by National Semiconductor (now Texas Instruments), this controller offers a comprehensive solution for managing the timing and control signals required to drive a CRT monitor. It's designed to interface with a variety of microprocessors and display memory configurations.

Applications

• CRT Monitors
• Industrial Displays
• Graphics Terminals
• Instrumentation Displays
• Early PC Monitors

Features

• Programmable timing parameters for horizontal and vertical synchronization
• Support for interlaced and non-interlaced scanning
• Direct drive capability for CRT monitor signals
• Light pen input
• Internal character generator support
• Double buffered registers

Benefits

• Simplified CRT display system design
• Reduced component count
• Improved display performance
• Flexibility in display format and resolution
• Enhanced system reliability

Additional Details

The DP8473AN generates all the necessary timing signals, including horizontal sync, vertical sync, blanking, and video enable, to control the raster scanning of the CRT. It can be programmed to support various display resolutions and refresh rates. It also incorporates features to simplify interfacing with display memory and the host processor. The device typically operates from a +5V power supply. Its architecture allows for easy integration into existing systems, providing a cost-effective solution for CRT display applications. The light pen input enables interactive applications, and the double-buffered registers ensure smooth transitions between display frames. Legacy applications may still rely on this part due to its specific feature set and proven reliability in older systems.