RF interconnect for compute modules

Let’s start with the basics - what are compute modules? Compute modules are devices within a vehicle that process inputs and store data. But not all compute modules are created equally. Some compute modules perform a wide range of tasks while others are designed to support a specific subsystem. Advanced compute modules can process millions of data points received from multiple inputs every second. At the same time, machine learning and artificial intelligence are being utilized to make decisions. This is particularly important in autonomous vehicles where internal and external data analysis is the driving force behind safety protocols -  a topic that is at the forefront of most conversations dealing with this exciting yet not fully regulated technology.

Depending on the vehicle, and there are a lot of factors that play into this, there can be as few as two compute modules (one being just for redundancy) or up to 200 or even more in others. These compute modules are often responsible for a variety of tasks whether they’re being used in an automotive or industrial application. Commonly, they are in charge of overseeing and regulating systems including infotainment, human machine interfaces (HMI), advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous systems, camera and machine vision systems which include 360-degree surround cameras and driver monitoring, and radar and LiDAR.

You may be asking yourself, what’s driving the advancement of embedded computing technology across multiple industries? That’s easy - autonomy. Autonomous technology, where safety mechanisms are critical, is a key driver of computing technology in vehicles, both commercial and industrial.

Machine Learning & AI

In order to understand how compute modules function and their importance in the automotive and industrial space, it’s important to understand how they have evolved, more recently at an accelerated pace. Compute modules are the basis for complex data processing within a vehicle that has been compounded over the years by the sharp increase in advanced technology. They are now responsible for machine learning and artificial intelligence capabilities. Most everyone is clued in as to what AI is from years of pop culture references but machine learning remains a little more of a foreign concept.

What is machine learning? Machine learning is the use and development of computer systems that are able to learn and adapt without following explicit instructions. It does this by using algorithms and statistical models to analyze and draw inferences from patterns in data, similar to how your favorite social media apps function. 

Within the automotive industry, compute modules that use machine learning as their foundation for decision-making can identify objects, perform sensor fusion (the act of combining data from multiple sensors simultaneously such as cameras), use LiDar and radar to create meaningful data points, monitor driving, and assist with navigation and guidance. Similarly, in the industrial space, machine learning is imperative to predictive maintenance, increasing safety protocols, and efficiency and productivity gains.

Machine learning utilizes crowdsourced data for more data points which is an added benefit of the technology and helps the system to continuously optimize.

RF Interconnect Requirements

AUTOMATE® Mini-FAKRA for camera and high bandwidth requirements

There are several key features of the Mini-FAKRA interface that makes it ideal for applications within a vehicle including high-resolution cameras, as to which there can be many, and the high-bandwidth requirements of infotainment, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and of course, the embedded computer or compute module, which acts as the brain of the vehicle.

Automate Mini-FAKRA Features & Benefits:

• High-speed and bandwidth capabilities up to 20 Gbps
• High density to accommodate for vehicle and module space constraints with consideration for weight
• Highly ruggedized construction with error-proof features built-in:
  • Visual (color-coded) and mechanical keying
  • Crash proof contacts
  • Connector Position Assurance (CPA)
  • Terminal Position Assurance (TPA)
• Modular, multi-port design
  • Straight and right-angle options in single-, dual- and quad-port configurations
• Fully automated assembly ensures competitive costs

The images below show right-angle PCB mount connectors in three different configurations:

• Cable mounted connectors support common automotive cable types
  • TFC302LL and equivalent cables
  •  RG-174LL and equivalent cables
• Pre-configured (fixed length) break-out cables offer standard solution for development needs
  • Connectorized with FAKRA, SMA or AUTOMATE connectors

FAKRA Connectors for antenna and other device connections

In addition to our newer Mini-FAKRA product series, legacy FAKRA connectors are still a popular choice for automotive and more recently, industrial applications. They feature many of the same features and benefits, and have a proven track record in these industries.

• Highly ruggedized construction with error-proof features built-in
  • Visual (color-coded) and mechanical keying
  • TPA
•  PCB connectors are often customized to fit enclosure geometry or to add specific features such as shielding
• Cable mounted connectors support many common automotive cable types
• Pre-configured (fixed length) cable assemblies offer standard solution for development 

Ultraminiature Cable Assemblies

Compute modules are connected to other devices within the vehicle, obviously, and this often requires a compact solution to accommodate for the space constraints. Amphenol RF’s AMC to sealed IP67-rated FAKRA and AMC4 to FAKRA cable assemblies terminated to micro-coax cables are ideal for this application. Micro-coax cable types are extremely flexible and can fit almost anywhere. AMC and AMC4 connectors are equally versatile, they take up extremely limited space on any PCB and have minimal profiles. Utilizing these RF interconnect along with your traditional FAKRA connectors will expand their usage in the automotive and industrial space.

Summary

Amphenol RF is excited to participate in current and future generation compute module development and to be able to provide the highest quality RF interconnect for use in this increasingly critical technology. We offer an expansive portfolio of standard connectors, adapters and cable assemblies designed to meet the requirements of both the automotive and industrial space but recognize that some applications require custom solutions. Our global team of experienced engineers are able to refine existing RF interconnect solutions to meet the specific needs of any application.

Amphenol RF offers a complete portfolio of AUTOMATE Mini-FAKRA and FAKRA products from a compute module’s printed circuit board all the way to an antenna, camera or other connected device.

Contact us today to learn more about our Mini-FAKRA and FAKRA product offerings, or to discuss your specific application and needs in order to create a custom solution.