Renesas Electronics Introduces New Automotive Camera Solution that Enables HD Video with Conventional Low-Cost Cables and Connectors

     Renesas Electronics Group, a global supplier of semiconductor solutions, announced the launch of new automotive high-definition link (AHL) technology, the new RAA279971 AHL encoder chip and RAA279972 decoder chip, enabling automakers to The connector transmits high-definition video. High-definition video is increasingly critical in the object recognition capabilities of automotive security systems. As a market leader in advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), Renesas' new AHL can be paired with other products such as its R-Car SoC, RH850 MCU, in-vehicle PMIC, and analog devices to cost-effectively implement numerous safety functions in almost any vehicle.

     The new RAA279971 AHL encoding chip and RAA279972 decoding chip use modulated analog signals to transmit video, and the transmission rate is 1/10 of that required for digital high-definition signal transmission. The lower transfer rate means that traditional twisted pair cables and standard analog connectors can be used, and existing analog video cables and connectors can also be used. On the other hand, digital links such as SerDes require highly shielded cables and high-end connectors, which cost much more than AHLs, may need to be replaced after 5-7 years, and are difficult to route due to their bend radius limitations.

     AHL has strong noise immunity, has a bidirectional control channel that operates independently of video data, and can initialize, program, and monitor camera modules. In the process of video transmission through a pair of unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cables, the ability to control the camera at the same time is one of the key features of AHL, and this solution can also significantly reduce system costs. Another advantage of AHL over digital link is that in rear-view camera applications, a faulty cable harness or connector assembly can degrade the digital link signal, as weak signals can cause macroblocks to appear, hiding most of the available signals. view area. Likewise, the AHL link will present a slight change in video color or contrast, but all pixels will be present on the screen, and the image will accurately identify objects or people behind the vehicle.

     "Advanced safety systems are no longer just for luxury vehicles," said Niall Lyne, vice president of the Automotive Analog Power and Video Business Unit at Renesas Electronics. "The AHL system now enables our customers to experience these in all new vehicles, including economy models. Function."