Audi improves car infotainment

MUMBAI, INDIA: AUDI is networking the Audi virtual cockpit system in its new high-class Q7 SUV Models.

For this, it is using MOST technology, following a similar deployment in its TT Coupe Models.

The car maker has partnered with Microchip Technology, a provider of microcontroller, mixed-signal, analog and Flash-IP solutions for the same.

Specifically, Audi is utilising Microchip's OS81110 and OS81118 MOST150 Intelligent Network Interface Controllers (INICs), which provide 150 Mbps performance and support all MOST network data types.

The OS81118 also includes a high speed USB 2.0 interface (PHY/HSIC) to seamlessly connect with the virtual cockpit's system-on-chip processor.

To date, more than 170 million MOST interface controllers have been installed in 184 car models since 2001. Audi and all major carmakers have for many years successfully implemented MOST technology in their multi-node infotainment networking systems, as it provides a field-proven, low-risk, whole-system solution.

The MOST150 standard also provides Ethernet or Internet-protocol networking capabilities. This latest version of MOST technology continues to predictably and efficiently transport video, audio, packet and control data throughout the vehicle without time-synchronisation protocols, by using dedicated channels for minimal processor overhead in the main infotainment control unit processors.