Atmel Corporation, one of the best-known companies in the field of microcontrollers and touch solutions, has just announced the maXTouch, a technology that will allow manufacturers to build large format touchscreen displays. The company's maXTouch solution has been quickly favored for smartphones, and is now capable of handling touchscreens of up to 15 inches, which makes it perfectly suitable for new devices like touch-tablets, smartbooks, MIDs and even products targeting the industrial sector.

"Touchscreen demand in personal computers will exceed 115 million screens by 2014, placing PCs as the fastest growing touch opportunity in today's market," said Rhoda Alexander, director of monitor research at iSuppli Corporation. "Slate tablets will lead the charge and spur the already growing demand for touch-enabled Netbooks, notebooks, monitors, and all-in-one desktop computers. Consumer expectations for touch functionality will rapidly move past simple two-finger solutions to eight-finger and more, improved tactile feedback, and handwriting recognition. Powerful, multi-chip solutions will be a key part of this growth, allowing for the rapid expansion of functionality and form essential to this diverse market."

Sporting unlimited touch functionality and stylus support, the maXTouch technology complies with the ever-increasing needs and features of future products, enabling new applications and touch-gestures. By combining the chip technology with their proprietary algorithms, Atmel is providing a better performing touchscreen, that also responds faster. Applications using the advanced touchscreen functionality include unlimited touches, rejection of unintended touching, stretch and pinch, as well as rotate gestures, handwriting and shape recognition. Furthermore, the maXTouch supports face detection, for suiting mobile phones, grip suppression and palm rejection for MIDs and netbooks.

"Atmel is committed to the touch market segment. With the recent adoption of touchscreens for smartbooks, MIDs and Netbooks, consumers continue to demand a better touch experience," said Peter Jones, managing director and general manager for microcontroller and touch solutions, Atmel Corporation. "Atmel's maXTouch solutions will offer consumers a more unique user experience. The company will continue to bring more innovative solutions to market to enhance the user experience for touch applications."


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