Renesas’ New Four-Channel Video Decoder for Automotive Cameras Enables Economical Surround View Applications

Renesas Electronics Corporation introduced the newest device in its Automotive HD Link (AHL) portfolio that enables automotive manufacturers to deliver high-definition video over low-cost cables and connectors. The new RAA279974 4-channel AHL video decoder processes four input sources simultaneously, making it an economical solution for surround-view and multi-camera applications.

Renesas’ AHL technology uses a modulated analog signal to transmit video. The frequency is therefore 10 times lower than digital transmission solutions available in the market today (~37MHz vs. >3GHz), making it robust against noise and enabling longer transmission distances (20-30m) with unshielded twisted pair cables and standard connectors. Existing standard-definition analog 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 (more info).