The flash memory board is a small board typically attached to either the module or the flex cable connecting the DMD and DLP controller. DLP image processing settings specific to the optical module are stored in the flash memory and are used by the DLP controller during configuration of the system.

TI manufactures and sells the DLP chipset, which includes a DMD, controller IC, and power management IC (PMIC). Of these three components, only the DMD is included in the optical module (the controller and PMIC are integrated on a nearby printed circuit board or PCB).

TI offers a portfolio of DMDs that enable different classes of optical modules (view and compare the DLP Display & Projection Chipsets). Optical modules are designed and manufactured by third party companies (see Figure 1-3). Customers can source a pre-existing, tooled optical module from an optical module manufacturer (OMM) to speed design time and go to market faster. Alternatively, custom optical modules can be designed by an OMM with additional time and resources. The optical module ecosystem is robust, with OMMs worldwide that supply a variety of optical modules in high volumes.

Figure 1-3 Supply Chain from TI DLP Chip to Product