Maxim Integrated Products has introduced the latest members of its high-speed LVDS serializer/deserializer (SerDes) family: the MAX9257/MAX9258 SerDes chipset. This chipset forms a complete, bidirectional digital video link between an automotive ECU and camera. Communicating over a single, DC-balanced twisted-pair or differential line, this chipset simplifies design and reduces system cost. It eliminates the need for an external CAN or LIN interface, enables programming of camera settings through a UART/I2C control channel on a frame-by-frame basis, and allows isolation between the serializer and deserializer through AC-coupling. Additionally, the MAX9257/MAX9258 feature patented* spread-spectrum modulation and a programmable serial data rate to reduce EMI and allow the use of lower cost cables and connectors. This chipset is ideal for automotive camera applications such as sign recognition, collision avoidance, night vision, and lane departure.
The MAX9257/MAX9258 are also ideal for automotive cameras with different resolutions and speeds. They provide hot-swapping to increase fault tolerance and allow "on-the-fly" frequency programming. To ensure efficient use of ECU bandwidth, they utilize built-in error detection to alert the ECU when video or control-channel data is corrupted. Additionally, an integrated self-test feature checks for link integrity at system power-up.
The MAX9257/MAX9258 operate from a 3.3V core supply and feature a separate input supply for interfacing with 1.8V to 3.3V logic levels. The MAX9257 is available in 5mm x 5mm, 40-pin TQFN or 48-pin LQFP packages; the MAX9258 is offered in a 48-pin LQFP package. Both devices are fully specified over the -40 degrees Celsius to +105 degrees Celsius operating temperature range. Pricing for each starts at $4.12 (1000-up, FOB USA).
Maxim Integrated Products
