Molex introduces second-generation HSAutoLink Interconnect System

“A dominating trend in automotive electronics is the proliferation of in-vehicle cameras for intelligent assistant systems; lane departure warning, collision avoidance and parking assist all make use of numerous cameras positioned at various locations on the vehicle,” says Mike Gardner, global marketing manager, infotainment and in-vehicle networks, Molex. “This, together with a move towards larger, higher resolution and 24-bit colour imagery, is increasing the bandwidth requirements for the transport network. The next generation, HSAutoLink II™ interconnect system addresses these evolving requirements and the needs of OEMs by providing a cost-competitive connector system with data rates in excess of 2.0 Gbps and the ability to support different communication networks or protocols.”

A flexible and expandable product family, the HSAutoLink II™ from Molex is offered initially with 6 and 12 circuits providing flexibility for combined links or support for multiple protocols in the same connector, including USB 2.0, USB 3.0, LVDS, Ethernet AVB (Audio Visual Bridging), and modified HDMI, DVI and DisplayPort. Use of shielded twisted-pair (STP) or jacketed unshielded twisted pair (JUTP) cabling provides a range of options for cost-competitive solutions for high-speed differential signaling applications.

The HSAutoLink II™ Interconnect System uses the field-proven terminal interface designed for high pin-count signal applications requiring high reliability and high-speed signaling performance. The low contact insertion force (0.5N per circuit) is achieved through a terminal design that gradually separates the receptacle contacts for high durability withstand up to 5000 mating cycles with a standard gold plating finish. The 2 contact beams provide multiple current paths with minimal length, and low and stable contact resistance; this contact geometry and density promotes high bandwidth performance with a nominal data-rate measured between 3 to 4 GHz in a differential signaling environment. Contact system provides current carrying capacity of 1.5Amps (continuous).

The fully-protected shield case for the harness connector (sealed or unsealed) and closed shield case on the mating soldering side or In-line connection, provides superior EMI performance. In addition, the sealed connector system employs a fully-protected perimeter seal and wire seal to meet the harsh requirements according to IP69K.