Sony simplifies flip-phone cabling

Single wire transmits 940Mbps

Sony has developed a single-wire interface technology which could see and end to the fragile ribbon cables used in clamshell devices like flip phones and laptop computers.

The technology allows the data and power normally transmitted between hinged or rotating components to be sent using a single copper cable rather than the multi-strand ribbon cables commonly used which are prone to stress fractures and breakage.

"In recent years, mobile devices have become ever more sophisticated in terms of advanced functionality and high resolution displays," says Sony. "As a result, more wiring connections have been used to accommodate the increasing volume of data being transmitted within devices."

Because of this increasing complexity, traditional cabling solutions and connectors have become bulkier and more difficult to bend.

Sony's solution uses time division duplex and multiplex routines to allow the hardware to send audio, video and data signals, as well as DC power, along a single cable in separated bursts.

In practical terms, the single wire method allows up to 22 discrete connections which would be required to connect the keypad of a flip-phone to the screen to be replaced with a single coaxial cable.

(Yes we know a coaxial cable is effectively two wires but you know what we mean. Put the crayon down).