Industry’s First Automotive USB 3.1 SmartHub with Type-C™ Support Enables 10x Faster Data Rates in Infotainment Systems
February 26 2019 - 2:00AM
As firmware updates and larger media files become more prevalent in
automotive entertainment consoles, faster data rates are required
to reduce upload and download times. Microchip Technology Inc.
(Nasdaq: MCHP) today announced an
automotive-qualified USB 3.1 Gen1 SmartHub IC, offering up to 10
times faster data rates over existing USB 2.0 solutions and
reducing indexing times to improve the user experience in vehicles.
To support the rising adoption of USB Type-C in the smartphone
market and enable universal connectivity in vehicles, the
USB7002 SmartHub IC includes interfaces for USB
Type-C connectors.
As automotive manufacturers continue to add more
functions to vehicles and integrate with mobile phone applications,
the role of USB for reliable data transfers requires robust
functionality and faster transfer speeds. Consumers expect instant
responses from infotainment systems despite many functions
occurring simultaneously in vehicles, from transferring mapping
data to playing music and interacting with user interfaces. The 5
Gbps SuperSpeed data rates of USB 3.1 ensure higher bandwidth and
maximum functionality, making it well suited for applications that
require gigabit speeds for faster data streaming, data download and
in-vehicle communication. The USB7002 also reduces the download
time for large videos, which is ideal for vehicles that have
integrated 4K dash cams.
Consumer demand for faster mobile device charging
has led to the rise of USB Type-C in the smartphone industry. The
USB7002 combines the benefits of USB 3.1 technology with the rising
popularity of USB Type-C. The USB7002 enables direct USB Type-C
connections through native Configuration Channel (CC) pin
interfaces and integrated 2:1 multiplexers that support the
reversible connection feature of the USB Type-C
connector.
“Microchip continues to invest in bringing devices
to market that are at the forefront of USB technology in the
automotive industry,” said Charles Forni, general manager of
Microchip’s USB and Networking business unit. “From providing
faster charging for mobile devices in the car console and backseat
to introducing the industry’s first automotive USB 3.1 solution
with USB Type-C compatibility, we continue to offer solutions that
enhance the in-vehicle experience.”
To support the driver assistance applications that
are now standard on all mobile handsets, the SmartHub ICs also
include Microchip’s patented FlexConnect technology, which provides
the unique ability to dynamically swap between a USB host and USB
device. The SmartHub ICs also feature patented multi-host end-point
reflector technology, which enables USB data to be mirrored between
two USB hosts. These fundamental features enable the graphical user
interface of a phone to be displayed on the vehicle’s screen and
integrate with voice commands inside the car, while simultaneously
charging the mobile device. This allows consumers to easily and
safely use their mobile devices while driving, providing a
user-friendly way to make calls, send messages and get directions
while focusing on the road.
“Consumers expect infotainment systems in today’s
vehicles to instantly respond without any delay,” said Dave
Atkinson, director of business development, connected mobility
solutions, Molex. “We leveraged Microchip’s USB7002 with 5 Gbps
SuperSpeed data rates to ensure maximum functionality in our
automotive media hub.”
Development ToolsThe USB7002 IC comes with a
complete solution including the MPLAB® Connect Configurator hub
configuration tool, evaluation boards with schematics and gerbers
to reduce development time. Microchip’s USBCheck™ services allow
manufacturers to verify designs and layouts prior to sending out a
PCB for manufacturing, significantly accelerating time to market
for their end products.
Pricing and AvailabilityThe USB7002-I/KDXVA0 is
AEC-Q100 Grade 3 qualified and available now starting at $4.05 in
volume production quantities. For additional information and to
purchase products mentioned here, contact a Microchip sales
representative or authorized worldwide distributor.
ResourcesHigh-res images available through
Flickr or editorial contact (feel free to publish):
- Application graphic:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/microchiptechnology/40128931283
- Chip shot:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/microchiptechnology/33218699578/
- Block diagram:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/microchiptechnology/47093759221/
About Microchip TechnologyMicrochip Technology
Inc. is a leading provider of microcontroller, analog, FPGA,
connectivity and power management semiconductors. Its easy-to-use
development tools and comprehensive product portfolio enable
customers to create optimal designs which reduce risk while
lowering total system cost and time to market. The company’s
solutions serve more than 130,000 customers across the industrial,
automotive, consumer, aerospace and defense, communications and
computing markets. Headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, Microchip
offers outstanding technical support along with dependable delivery
and quality. For more information, visit the Microchip website at
www.microchip.com.
Note: The Microchip name and logo, the Microchip logo and MPLAB
are registered trademarks of Microchip Technology Incorporated in
the U.S.A. and other countries. USBCheck is a trademark of
Microchip Technology Incorporated in the U.S.A. and other
countries. All other trademarks mentioned herein are the property
of their respective companies.
Editorial Contact:
Christie Haber
480-792-4386
christie.haber@microchip.com
Reader Inquiries:
1-888-624-7435
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