ZF has advanced its ProAI high-performance computer to incorporate optical multi-gigabit Ethernet for automotive applications. Utilising newly developed chips and connectors, the system transmits data via automotive-grade optical fibres compliant with the IEEE 802.3cz standard.
According to Oliver Briemle, head of Cross-Domain Computing at ZF, this “ultra-fast transmission is a key technology for future vehicle electrical systems of software-defined vehicles.” The technology supports both short and long-distance transmissions up to 40 metres, with series production anticipated as early as next year.
Extensive testing has confirmed the suitability and robustness of optical multi-gigabit Ethernet across various vehicle classes, including cars, trucks, buses, and shuttles, under diverse operating conditions.
Optical data transmission offers several advantages for the automotive industry:
- High Data Transfer Rates: Supporting 2.5, 5, 10, 25, and 50 Gbit/s, crucial for data-intensive applications like ADAS, infotainment, and networked services.
- Increased Transmission Distance: Enabling data transfer up to 40 metres, suitable for all vehicle types.
- Weight Saving: Fibre optics are significantly lighter than copper cables, contributing to reduced vehicle consumption.
- Reliability and Longevity: OM3 optical fibres (IEEE 802.3cz-2023) offer stable data transmission, are resistant to electromagnetic interference and wear, and enable galvanically isolated communication.
- Energy Efficiency: Requiring less energy for data transmission compared to copper-based systems, reducing overall vehicle energy consumption.
- Scalable and Future-Proof: Existing optical cabling can accommodate upgrades to higher data transmission speeds for new HPCs, ECUs, and MDCs.
- Lower Costs: The widely used OM3 optical fibres and high production volumes of VCSELs and photodiodes contribute to cost-effective implementation.
- Improved Communication Channels: Offering near-ideal channels with low physical layer complexity, resulting in lower power consumption, latency, and cost. A dedicated OAM channel ensures high reliability and efficient link management.
ZF anticipates that optical multi-gigabit Ethernet will be a key enabler for the evolving electrical architectures of future vehicles.