Universal test technology for automotive control units with video interfaces

"The Video Dragon combines both frame grabber and generator functions in one device and can process video data of the FPD-Link II/III and IV, GMSL-2 and 3 as well as APIX-2 and 3 standards. Thanks to its modular design – consisting of a base module with exchangeable video interface modules – the Video Dragon can be used flexibly and adapted to individual requirements," explains Ralf Kahl, Sales Manager Automotive Test Solutions.

A broad portfolio of different video interface modules enables the Video Dragon 6222 to be used as a project-specific multi-channel grabber or generator across all vehicle OEMs. Another application is the system test of an ECU network such as a head unit and a display unit or between driver assistance cameras and the corresponding image processing unit.

In the latter mode, the Video Dragon 6222 works in so-called pass-through operation – in this case, it receives the data from a real transmitter, forwards it directly to the real receiver and creates a copy of this data, which is imperceptible to the transmitter and receiver, and which can then be transferred to the connected test PC via the respective PC host interface of the Video Dragon.

A wide range of special functions such as sideband communication via UART, I²C, SPI or MII, a CAN-FD bus interface (e.g., for residual bus simulation) and a digital I/O interface are also available as options.

The G-patch module (break-out box), which is also available as an option, on the one hand provides the connector type required in the user project for connecting the DUT to the Video Dragon 6222 and also enables the power supply to the DUT at the same time.

For coaxially connected DUTs (e.g. driver assistance cameras) this is referred to as PoC (Power over Coax).

In addition to the connection option via coax (Fakra connectors), the G-Patch module also offers the option of connecting the DUT via STP (Shielded Twisted Pair), based on HSD, H-MTD and suitable other connectors.

The Video Dragon is rounded off functionally by its intuitive Dragon Suite configuration and operating software, which is included free of charge in the scope of delivery – available for WIN and LINUX operating systems.

Based on graphical and interactive dialogues, it enables very convenient configuration and parameterisation of the Video Dragon and immediately puts the user in a position to put his application into operation and visualise the results.

The use of Video Dragon in customised test systems in conjunction with individual test software frameworks has also been considered.

For example, Video Dragon can be integrated very easily into user software (e.g., C code, LabVIEW, ...) via a generic API, which is also part of the scope of delivery.

Corresponding product and application support is part of the service portfolio offered, as is support in selecting the appropriate components and their configurations.

The Video Dragon 6222 product family includes the stand-alone device G-CAR 6222, the PCI express card PCIe-6222 and the PXI express module PXIe-6222.