The RAA279974 4-channel AHL video decoder processes four input sources simultaneously, making it a more economical solution for surround-view and multi-camera applications.
Renesas’ AHL technology uses a modulated analogue signal to transmit video. The frequency is therefore 10 times lower than other digital transmission solutions available currently available in the market (~37MHz vs. >3GHz), making it more robust against noise and enabling longer transmission distances (20-30m) with unshielded twisted pair cables and standard connectors.
Existing standard-definition analogue video cables and connectors can also be employed. Using unshielded twisted pair cables not only reduces cost, but it is also easier to route through the vehicle and offers lighter weight for improved energy efficiency and performance.
Digital links such as SerDes require heavily shielded cables and high-end connectors that cost significantly more than those for AHL and may require replacement after five to seven years.
The RAA279974 completes the AHL family of products which consists of the RAA279971, single channel AHL video encoder and the RAA279972, a single channel AHL video decoder.
According to Renesas, the RAA279974 is an important addition to the AHL family as most OEMs want to support multiple cameras in vehicles for applications such as surround view parking assistance monitors. AHL can be paired with R-Car Automotive SoCs, RH850 MCUs, automotive PMICs, and analogue components to implement numerous safety features in virtually any vehicle cost effectively.
“Multi-camera safety systems are quickly becoming a must-have feature for many consumers,” said Davin Lee, Vice President of the Analog & Connectivity Product Group. “The AHL system enables our automotive customers to now deliver these features in all new vehicles, including economy models.”
AHL is robust against noise and offers excellent picture quality and there is no noticeable difference in picture quality when compared to a pure digital video image. Due to the fundamental nature of an analogue signal, an AHL video transmission can withstand noise and interference. The picture may degrade slightly, but there will still be a live image to view. With a digital link, any noise/interference will result in a complete loss of picture.
Key Features of AHL
- Supports resolutions from VGA up to 720p/60 or 1080p/30 for flexibility to implement non-standard vertical resolutions (not just the TV video standard 16:9 resolutions)
- MIPI-CSI2, BT656, & DVP inputs and outputs provide flexible interface to support a variety of image sensors
- AHL does not require compression like an Ethernet system does, so it has no latency in the video
- Requires only 27MHz crystal clock, with internal PLLs able to generate the necessary clock frequencies for higher resolutions, reducing cost
- AHL has passed BCI & CISPR25 EMC/EMI testing using UTP cables
- MIPI-CSI2 output with Virtual Channel allows 4 channels of video to be sent over a single data bus interface to the SoC (saves input ports on the SoC)
