CXPI transceiver IC enables multiplexing between ECUs

9th November 2015

Barney Scott

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ROHM has announced a transceiver IC compatible with the low-speed, low-cost CXPI communication protocol for use in body control applications, including steering switch, AC and instrument panel systems. The BD41000FJ-C enables multiplexing between ECUs, contributing to decreased vehicle weight and improved fuel efficiency by reducing the number and size of wiring harnesses.

In addition, low quiescent current (3uA typ.) and high ESD resistance (±8kV, IEC61000-4-2) make it possible to achieve low-power, high-reliability CXPI communication.

In recent years, the continuing demand for increased fuel efficiency makes it necessary to not only minimise system power consumption through electronic control but reduce vehicle weight as well by using lighter components, including wiring harnesses.

To decrease weight, many systems adopt LIN for multiplex communication. However, with LIN it is difficult to achieve sufficient reliability and communication response when multiplexing in HMI applications such as wipers, lights, and steering switches.

In response, JASO (Japanese Automotive Standards Organization) an automotive standardisation organisation established by JSAE (Society of Automotive Engineers of Japan), developed the next-gen automotive communication protocol CXPI to reduce the number and weight of wiring harnesses by making multiplexing possible even in advanced, multifunction HMI systems.

Subsequently, as a leading semiconductor manufacturer, in 2012 ROHM contributed to the standardisation of CXPI while leveraging cutting-edge power BiCDMOS processes and advanced analog design technology to develop the world’s first CXPI transceiver IC.

Although LIN is often used for body control, it is often difficult to achieve sufficient performance and reliability in HMI applications that require instantaneous response. In contrast, the BD41000FJ-C is compliant with the CXPI standard established by JSAE, enabling highly responsive, reliable multiplex communication even in HMI systems, reducing vehicle weight and contributing to greater fuel efficiency.

Market-proven circuit technology is utilised to achieve a quiescent current of 3uA (typ.), ensuring suitability with automotive applications. As a result battery load is minimized during non-operation, contributing to greater energy savings. ROHM leverages advanced BiCDMOS processes and proven analogue design technology to provide low output noise with high ESD resistance. This provides superior reliability, enabling use even under harsh environments.

The ICs are scheduled for availability in February 2016, in sample quantities, and in May 2016, in OEM quantities.