Key Takeaways
- Marelli and Microchip unveiled an open‑standard display link based on ASA Motion Link (ASA‑ML) that streams graphics from a vehicle’s central computer to cockpit screens.
- The solution uses Microchip’s VS7000 ASA‑ML chipset, delivering up to 8 Gb/s of video data with < 1 ms latency and ≤ 2.5 W power draw.
- By adopting ASA‑ML, OEMs can replace proprietary SerDes bridges (e.g., LVDS, FPD‑Link) with a scalable, interoperable interface, reducing wiring complexity and BOM cost by ≈ 15 % in typical head‑unit architectures.
- The demonstrator shows how the link supports software‑defined vehicle (SDV) architectures, offering flexibility for future OTA‑upgradable infotainment and driver‑assist displays.
Introduction
Marelli and Microchip Technology have partnered to create a hardware‑software reference platform that streams high‑resolution graphics and video from a vehicle’s central processing unit (CPU) directly to multiple displays using ASA Motion Link (ASA‑ML). ASA‑ML is an open SerDes (serializer‑deserializer) standard defined by the Automotive SerDes Alliance (ASA), a consortium that includes OEMs, Tier‑1 suppliers, and semiconductor firms.
What Is ASA Motion Link?
Open‑Standard Video Connectivity
- Specification: 4‑lane, 2.5 Gb/s per lane (up to 10 Gb/s aggregate); supports 4K @ 60 Hz, HDR, and compressed streams (e.g., H.265).
- Security: Integrated AES‑128 encryption and authentication to prevent tampering.
- Scalability: Allows chaining of up to 16 displays on a single link, ideal for digital instrument clusters, heads‑up displays, and rear‑seat entertainment.
Industry Impact
ASA‑ML replaces legacy proprietary links such as LVDS, FPD‑Link, and MIPI‑DSI with a single, interoperable protocol. This reduces the need for multiple bridge chips, simplifies PCB routing, and opens the supply chain to a broader set of vendors.
The Demonstrator Architecture
| Block | Function | Key Spec |
|---|---|---|
| Central Computer (CPU) | Generates graphics/video | Up to 2 TFLOPS GPU, 8 K video decode |
| Microchip VS7000 ASIC | ASA‑ML serializer & controller | 8 Gb/s aggregate, < 1 ms latency, 2.5 W TDP |
| Marelli Display Module | Receiver & driver for LCD/OLED | Supports 4K @ 60 Hz, HDR10+, 12‑bit color |
| Transport Medium | Shielded twisted‑pair cable | 24‑AWG, up to 5 m without repeaters |
| Software Stack | Open‑source driver, OTA‑ready API | Linux‑based, CAN‑FD for control |
The VS7000 chip converts pixel data into the ASA‑ML stream, which travels over a single high‑speed differential pair to Marelli’s display receiver. The receiver deserializes the data and feeds it to the panel driver with zero‑frame loss.
Why Open Standards Matter for SDVs
- Cost Efficiency – Eliminating multiple proprietary bridges can cut bill‑of‑materials (BOM) by 10‑15 % per display unit.
- Future‑Proofing – OTA updates can add new video codecs or higher resolutions without hardware redesign, because the underlying link remains unchanged.
- Supply‑Chain Flexibility – OEMs can source serializers and receivers from any ASA‑compliant vendor, mitigating single‑source risk.
Comparison: ASA‑ML vs. Proprietary SerDes
| Feature | ASA‑ML (Open) | LVDS (Proprietary) | FPD‑Link (Proprietary) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Data Rate | 8 Gb/s (aggregate) | 3.125 Gb/s | 6 Gb/s |
| Supported Resolution | 4K @ 60 Hz, HDR | 1080p @ 60 Hz | 4K @ 30 Hz |
| Latency | < 1 ms | 3‑5 ms | 2‑4 ms |
| Power (per lane) | ≤ 2.5 W | 3‑4 W | 3 W |
| Interoperability | Multi‑vendor (ASA) | Single‑vendor | Single‑vendor |
| Security | AES‑128 encryption | None | Optional |
| Scalability | Up to 16 displays on one link | 1‑2 displays per link | 4‑8 displays per link |
Implications for Vehicle Architects
- Reduced Wiring Harness: A single twisted‑pair can replace up to eight LVDS cables, saving ≈ 30 % in harness weight.
- Simplified Validation: Conformance to ASA‑ML is verified through the ASA certification suite, cutting validation time by an estimated 20 %.
- Enhanced OTA Capability: The open API allows firmware updates to the VS7000 and receiver modules without re‑qualifying the physical layer.
Bottom Line
Marelli and Microchip’s joint ASA‑ML demonstrator showcases a practical, open‑standard pathway for delivering high‑resolution video to automotive displays in the era of software‑defined vehicles. By leveraging the VS7000 ASIC and the ASA Motion Link protocol, OEMs can lower system cost, improve scalability, and future‑proof their infotainment and instrument clusters—all while maintaining the security and performance required for next
