Disassembling Google Glass: What chips are used?

Disassembling Google Glass reveals a variety of specialized chips that work together to provide its functionality. Here’s a detailed look at the key chips used in Google Glass:

1. Processor

• Texas Instruments OMAP 4430: This is the main system-on-chip (SoC) used in the first generation of Google Glass. It includes:

  • Dual-core ARM Cortex-A9 CPU: Provides the main processing power.

  • PowerVR SGX540 GPU: Handles graphics processing.

  • Integrated memory controller: Manages RAM and flash memory.

2. Memory

• RAM: Typically includes 1GB of LP DDR2 RAM for temporary data storage and quick access.

• Flash Memory: Around 16GB of NAND flash memory for storing the operating system, applications, and user data.

3. Sensors

• InvenSense MPU-6050: A 6-axis motion tracking device that combines a 3-axis gyroscope and a 3-axis accelerometer.

• AKM AK8963: A 3-axis magnetometer used for compass functionality.

• Ambient Light Sensor: Typically a small, integrated chip that adjusts the display brightness based on surrounding light conditions.

4. Camera

• OmniVision OV5640: A 5-megapixel CMOS image sensor used for capturing photos and videos.

5. Audio

• Bone Conduction Transducer: A specialized chip or module that converts electrical signals into vibrations for bone conduction audio.

• Microphone: Includes an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) chip to capture and digitize audio input.

6. Connectivity

• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Typically integrated into a single chip, such as the Broadcom BCM4330, which supports 802.11n Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.0.

• GPS: A dedicated GPS chip, such as the Broadcom BCM4751, provides location tracking and navigation capabilities.

7. Power Management

• Texas Instruments TWL6030: A power management integrated circuit (PMIC) that manages battery charging, power distribution, and voltage regulation.

8. Display and Optics

• Display Controller: A specialized chip that drives the micro-display, often integrated into the main SoC.

• Prism and Projector: While not a chip, the optical assembly includes a small projector and prism to direct the image to the user's eye.

9. Control Interface

• Touchpad Controller: A chip that processes touch input from the side-mounted touchpad.

• Button Interface: Simple digital input chips to handle button presses.

10. Miscellaneous

• Real-Time Clock (RTC): A small chip that keeps track of time even when the device is powered off.

• I/O Expanders: Additional chips to manage various input/output functions.

Disassembly Process

1. Removing the Frame: Carefully detach the titanium frame to access internal components.

2. Separating the Optical Assembly: Disconnect the prism and display from the main body.

3. Extracting the Processor and Memory: Remove the Texas Instruments OMAP 4430 SoC and the associated RAM and flash memory modules.

4. Detaching Sensors and Camera: Carefully disconnect the InvenSense MPU-6050, AKM AK8963, and OmniVision OV5640 chips.

5. Removing the Battery: Disconnect and remove the lithium-polymer battery.

6. Disconnecting Audio Components: Detach the bone conduction transducer and microphone chips.

7. Extracting Connectivity Modules: Remove the Broadcom BCM4330 and BCM4751 chips.

8. Final Disassembly: Separate the touchpad and button interface chips from the housing.

Conclusion

Google Glass is a sophisticated device that integrates a variety of specialized chips to deliver its augmented reality experience. Each chip plays a crucial role in the overall functionality, from processing and memory to sensors and connectivity. Disassembling Google Glass provides a fascinating glimpse into the advanced engineering and technology that make it possible.