Molex has released its HSAutoLink interconnect system, an emerging high-speed data bus for the “Connected Vehicle”, which now supports USB 2.0. The products connect portable devices such as MP3 players, flash drives and portable navigation systems into the car’s infotainment system. HSAutoLink encompasses technologies incorporated from other Molex high volume products and industry standard applications besides the Universal Serial Bus (USB 2.0), such as Low Voltage Differential Signalling (LVDS), 1394 Auto (FireWire™), FlexRay, eMOST and Ethernet (AVB).
Molex is working with all potential in-vehicle technology providers and industry standardisation efforts to expand this newly introduced family of high speed connectors that meet the rigorous demands set by USCAR and leading OEMs on a global basis. The automotive industry-standard interface known as USCAR-30 supports USB 2.0 requirements for OEM system certification.
Cable assemblies employing the USB Standard A receptacle provide shrouded and latching capabilities for mounting in a vehicle, supplying a consumer interface for passenger use. Following similar design principles, the HSAutoLink cabling system is specified to allow for positive latching and connection to a media module within the vehicle. This connection links with the media module, allowing a digital-signal to convert to a vehicle's more traditional-analogue signal, enabling the use of devices such as MP3 players, flash drives, SD Cards and portable navigation systems.
The full-length cable shielding provides superior signal performance and reduced electromagnetic interference (EMI). Three primary cable configurations, along with keyed right-angle and vertical headers, allow for various packaging options and offer integration engineers the opportunity to more easily design-in Molex's HSAutoLink connector system.