Freescale's multicore Vybrid platform brings integration to auto center console

Cost and space constraints are usually the reasons given for not including features like connected radios, infotainment systems, and reconfigurable instrument clusters to sub-luxury-level automobiles. However, with the mandatory backup camera regulations gearing up for 2014/2015 for all cars in the US, these features will no longer be nice-to-have but rather must-have.

Freescale is addressing this new landscape of automotive capabilities by extending its ARMv7-compatible Vybrid controller into the automotive market with silicon-enabled software for these in-cabin features.

As an example, backup cameras for low-end cars are often decried by the auto manufacturers as being too expensive for the market. The Vybrid controller supports both analog inputs from the less-expensive analog camera, while still handling more sophisticated digital camera input, allowing the platform to serve the whole range of automotive design from entry-level to luxury product lines.

The automotive version of the Vybrid platform includes:

• Unique dual-core (Cortex-A5 + Cortex-M4) architecture allows Vybrid automotive solutions to handle both MCU and MPU tasks on a single chip, providing performance of over 850 DMIPs.
• Integrated video ADC for direct connection of one or more analog cameras to ensure lowest system cost and easy conformance to upcoming mandates requiring rear view cameras for safety purposes.
• 1.5 MB on-chip SRAM and multiple package options provide scalability, from low-cost, basic connected radios without external DRAM up to entry-level infotainment systems with dual displays.
• 2D-ACE and integrated OpenVG  hardware acceleration reduces memory requirements and provides advanced user interfaces.
• Standard vehicle connectivity is provided through integrated CAN controllers, MLB, UART/LIN and Ethernet with IEEE 1588 support.
• Dual USB 2.0 on-the-go (OTG) controllers with integrated PHY and a large variety of serial interfaces such as UART, SPI, and I2S provide connectivity to consumer electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets and Bluetooth-enabled devices.
• Vybrid VF series devices are included in Freescale's product longevity program, with assured supply for a minimum of 10 years. For terms and conditions and to obtain a list of available products, visit freescale.com/productlongevity.