The following information represents the preliminary specifications of this product and is subject to change.
GMSLTM, short for Gigabit Multimedia Serial Link, is an asymmetric, full-duplex SerDes (Serializer/Deserializer) technology developed by Analog Devices. It is primarily used for in-vehicle signal transmission, including navigation systems, in-vehicle infotainment systems, rearview cameras, and other advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). GMSL converts multiple parallel data streams into serial data for transmission over twisted-pair or coaxial cables, meeting the high data rate and long-distance transmission requirements of automotive applications — for example, distances of up to 15 meters.
*GMSLTM is a trademark of Analog Devices, Inc.
The A270164 GMSLTM Signal Module supports the latest GMSLTM III transmission rate modes while remaining compatible with the previous GMSLTM II standard. A single port provides three configurable lane rate settings (3/6/12 Gbps).
As vehicle systems become increasingly complex — including engines, lighting, air conditioning, and safety systems — an efficient and stable communication method is required to integrate various modules and replace traditional point-to-point wiring. The Chroma A270164 complies with standardized LIN (Local Interconnect Network) and CAN (Controller Area Network) bus protocols, offering high reliability (with built-in error detection), excellent real-time performance (message handling based on priority), and good scalability (multiple devices can be connected to one single bus). It also provides strong EMI resistance, while LIN is particularly suitable for periodic and non-real-time applications.
In response to the evolving designs of modern vehicle interiors, the A270164 supports testing of devices under test (DUTs) with various non-standard aspect ratios. Users can freely edit different test parameters according to their testing requirements, enabling flexible and adaptable inspection applications while reducing production costs.
While providing simulated in-vehicle dynamic image files, it allows up to 8G of internal DDR storage for continuous playback. With millisecond-level image refresh rates, it can be used for a wide range of real-world display and output demonstration applications.
Modern in-vehicle signal transmission is categorized into Single-Ended and differential signaling. A single-ended signal transmits data through a single line at a lower cost, while a differential signal uses two lines (P and N) to transmit complementary signals, effectively reducing external noise interference. The A270164 signal module supports dual outputs for both single-ended and differential signals, providing comprehensive testing applications for various automotive DUTs.
DSC (Display Stream Compression) technology enables efficient transmission of high-resolution video data by compressing it at the transmitter side (Encoder), allowing high-quality images to be delivered over limited bandwidth. The receiver (Decoder) then decompresses the data, restoring the video for display with virtually lossless image quality.
The A270164 supports 6/8/10-bit color depths for testing flexibility. At 10-bit color depth, the DSC function is required to transmit larger amounts of data under the same bandwidth conditions. It supports VESA DSC versions 1.1 and 1.2, allowing users to customize and edit test applications according to their needs.
In the latest GMSLTM III technology, PAM4 (Pulse Amplitude Modulation 4-Level) modulation has been formally introduced, significantly increasing data transmission rates while reducing frequency requirements. This technology is particularly suitable for automotive imaging and display systems, providing a high-performance connectivity solution for smart cockpits and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). PAM4 is a highly efficient digital signal modulation technology widely used in high-speed data transmission applications. Compared to traditional NRZ (Non-Return-to-Zero) binary signaling, which uses only two voltage levels (0 and 1), PAM4 expands the signal to four levels (00, 01, 10, 11), and each symbol carries 2 bits of information, effectively doubling the data throughput within the same bandwidth.
In a GMSL system, I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) is primarily used to control and manage functions. Communication is carried out through two signal lines — SDA (data line) and SCL (clock line) — excluding power and ground connections. With these two lines, multiple devices can be connected, making I2C suitable for non–high-speed data transmission applications such as Device Control & Configuration, Automotive Camera Module Control, Display & Panel Control, reading status information and error codes/System Diagnostics and Remote Firmware Updates.
SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) is a synchronous, full-duplex, high-speed serial communication interface that uses a master–slave architecture. It operates through four signal lines —
Line Fault Detection is a critical monitoring mechanism in GMSL automotive applications, enabling real-time detection of various line abnormalities to enhance system safety and maintenance efficiency. With the Line Fault Detection function, the A270164 can simulate the status of an in-vehicle serial communication system, read and report fault conditions, and support remote monitoring, such as signal abnormalities caused by signal loss due to line disconnection, interference or damage caused by short circuits between signal lines. Furthermore, through Line Fault Detection, the host system can instantly diagnose signal anomalies, significantly improving the overall system reliability, simplifying troubleshooting, and reducing maintenance costs and downtime risks.
UART (Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter) is a widely used serial communication protocol known for its simple and efficient data transmission capabilities, commonly applied in low-speed control communication between electronic devices. Within the GMSL (Gigabit Multimedia Serial Link) system architecture, UART serves as a critically controlled communication channel, managing and configuring the communication process between the Serializer and Deserializer, and it can be extended to support integrated control of external devices.
SSC (Spread Spectrum Clocking) is a clock modulation technique designed to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) generated by electronic devices. It works by modulating or spreading the clock signal’s frequency, thereby minimizing concentrated energy at specific frequencies and reducing peak radiated power, which in turn decreases interference between devices. The A270164 features a Center Spread SSC configuration mode, offering on/off control and supporting modulation deviations of 268/580/970/1750/2530 ppm.
The A270164 GMSLTM signal module can activate the VPG (Video Pattern Generator) mode to display standard test patterns, enabling self-testing applications.
The Chroma A270164 image output testing function primarily focuses on evaluating factors that affect visual perception and display quality. It comes with multiple DFF (Deutsches Flachdisplay-Forum e.V.)-defined DMS (Display Measurement Specifications) test patterns, including grayscale, color bars, and window-type patterns, allowing users to perform comprehensive visual performance evaluations.
*DFF is a trademark of Deutsches Flachdisplay-Forum e.V.
Equipped with a built-in eMMC (Embedded MultiMedia Card), the A270164 can store up to 1,200 BMP image files, depending on image resolution, with each BMP supporting a maximum resolution of 8K. In addition to using the preloaded test patterns, users can add their own test patterns to meet diverse testing requirements.
*The total number of images depends on the module resolution.
Equipped with an External Control interface, the system includes a 12V power supply for applications such as wake-up voltage, along with 8 independent GPIO controls (configurable as input or output). Additionally, I2C communication can be accessed through the Passthrough mode to read DUT (Device Under Test) information, supporting integration with future peripheral applications.
The A270164 GMSLTM signal module features a built-in in-vehicle script editor (Script) function, designed for device configuration and control. This function is especially useful during the design, testing, and production stages, allowing users to adjust and test parameters based on the DUT’s current status. It also enables direct product control and automation of related applications, significantly reducing operation time and improving testing efficiency.
FEC (Forward Error Correction) is a technique used in unidirectional communication systems to detect and correct transmission errors. It does so by adding redundant information to the data, thereby reducing the bit error rate. The A270164 supports FEC (DP 2.1 version) for packet transmission, enabling automatic error detection, correction, and data recovery to prevent data loss or corruption during transmission.
Electrical Static Discharge (ESD) has long been a major concern in electronic product design, as normal operation can easily be disrupted when devices are exposed to static discharge, causing unstable behavior or sudden malfunction. To prevent damage to integrated circuits during manufacturing or operation, the A270164 complies with IEC/EN 61000-4-2 ESD protection standards (15kV Air/8kV Contact Discharge). It is equipped with built-in ESD protection circuitry, providing comprehensive safeguarding against internal circuit damage caused by ESD events.
