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SDV-Enabled endpoints

In Zonal Control topologies, the endpoints are remote boards that are MCU-light or MCU-less, often based on Remote Control Protocol (RCP) via Ethernet 10BaseT1S, CAN FD Light, or other lower-cost protocols. Control is implemented by the Zonal Control Unit MCU or by Zonal I/O aggregators. This architecture allows OEMs to save money by reducing the number of MCUs. These boards contain mainly actuators and sensors. From a software perspective, standardization reduces complexity, improves system scalability, and enables upgradability and cloud access, supporting the concept of the Software Defined Vehicle (SDV).

Products and solutions

Ethernet 10BASE-T1S protocol

The OPEN Alliance TC18 specifies a Remote-Control Protocol (RCP) as a lightweight client-server communication technology that allows application software running on a host to remotely control a peripheral connected to a bridge device via an Ethernet link. In this context, it is suitable for communication between ZCU, acting as Client, and remote endpoints acting as server.

CAN-FD protocol

The CAN-FD protocol (CAN with flexible data-rate) is an extension of the classical CAN (CAN 2.0) protocol. CAN‑FD is the CAN 2.0 successor. It efficiently supports distributed real-time control with a very high level of security. CAN-FD was developed by Bosch and standardized as ISO 11898-1:2015 (suitable for industrial, automotive, and general embedded communications).

The Ethernet 10BASE-T1S is a new communication protocol specified by the Open Alliance RCP-TC18 and IEEE 1722B standards. Major car makers and Automotive Tier 1 suppliers are part of these technical committees.

LED/OLED drivers

ST offers linear and switching LED driver ICs specifically designed for automotive interior and exterior LED lighting applications. Equipped with a set of protection and diagnostic functions and designed to minimize external component count, they provide a compact and optimized solution. With on-chip serial peripheral interface (SPI) and other specific functionalities, they represent ideal companions to a microcontroller.

L99LDLH32, tailored for vehicles’ LED and OLED rear lights, is a linear current regulator with 32 constant current sources for precise and accurate lighting control. Its design minimizes ripples, guards against transients, regulates voltage, and prevents short circuits, ensuring rear lighting uniform brightness and reduced flicker for enhanced safety and reliability.

L99DZ300G new automotive door zone system IC with CAN FD and LIN