On Semiconductor has recently introduced the Modular Automotive Reference System (MARS) that enables system and software developers to avail ready-to-use camera for the purpose of research and development. The leading edge MARS platform allows reconfiguration of cameras with different lenses, image sensors, image signal processors (ISPs) and communications options for experimentation and prototyping.
Owing to the flexibility of the system, it can be applied to the full spectrum of automotive camera applications. These may include surround and rear viewing systems, in-cabin cameras (meant for gesture recognition, light level inspection, and driver eye monitoring), autonomous driving, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
The platform enables shorter design cycles and reduced engineering costs. It also assists automotive design teams to implement imaging systems by offering a mix-and-match solution. Moreover, it allows various hardware items to be combined in a robust and highly adaptable system.
Due to the availability of different boards, engineers have access to the company’s broad portfolio of image sensors and co-processors alongside various automotive communications protocols. This offers extensive scope in selecting the best combination that fits the system needs. The versatile platform is capable enough to accommodate limitless numbers of combinations due to consistent signal/power definitions for the interconnects utilized by these respective boards.
The adaptation of this modular platform eliminates the need for time-consuming activities like creating custom boards, writing code for drivers, and testing out high-speed interface standards. The support of commonly used communication standards (such as GMSL, FPD-Link, LVDS, MIPI, Ethernet) enables direct interfacing with existing vehicle electronic control units (ECUs).
ON Semiconductor is working with an ecosystem of partners spanning lens developers, third party ISP vendors, communications IC vendors, software developers and SoC vendors. MARS modules are already prequalified with a range of these third party products and the company will expand these offerings going forward.
Availability
The MARS product recommendation tool provides a convenient, step by step process to select the correct board(s) for your design.
ON Semiconductor
ON Semiconductor drives energy efficient innovations, empowering customers to reduce global energy use. The company is a leading supplier of semiconductor-based solutions, offering a comprehensive portfolio of energy efficient, power management, analog, sensors, logic, timing, connectivity, discrete, SoC and custom devices.
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