Renesas Electronics introduces Automotive HD Link (AHL) technology for automotive camera applications

     Renesas Electronics Group announced the introduction of new automotive HD Link (AHL) technology - the new RAA279971 AHL encoding chip and RAA279972 decoding chip, enabling automakers to transmit HD video over low-cost cables and connectors that currently support standard definition video. High-definition video is increasingly critical to object recognition in automotive safety systems. As a leader in the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) market, Renesas' new AHL can be paired with other products such as the R-Car SoC, RH850 MCUS, on-board PMIC and simulator components to cost-effectively implement numerous safety features in virtually any vehicle.

     The new RAA279971 AHL encoding chip and RAA279972 decoding chip use modulated analog signals to transmit video at 1/10 of the rate required for digital HD signal transmission. The lower transfer rate means that conventional twisted pair 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 that cost much more than AHL, may need to be replaced after 5-7 years, and are difficult to wire due to limitations in their bending radius.

     The AHL has strong anti-noise capabilities, a bidirectional control channel that operates independently of video data, and the ability to initialize, program, and monitor camera modules. The ability to control the camera during video transmission via a pair of unshielded twisted pair (UTP) is one of the key features of AHL, which also significantly reduces system costs. Another advantage of AHL over digital links is that in rear-view camera applications, failure of the cable harness or connector assembly can degrade the digital link signal, as weak signals can cause macroblocks to appear that hide most of the viewable area. In the same case, the AHL link will present a slight change in the color or contrast of the video, but all the pixels will be present on the screen, and the image will accurately identify the object or person behind the vehicle.

     Niall Lyne, vice president of Renesas Electronic Automotive Analog Power and Video, said: "Advanced safety systems are no longer just for luxury models. Now, the AHL system enables our customers to experience these features in all new vehicles, including economy models."