ST announces 77GHz transceiver for car radar
Building on its success with 24GHz radar, STMicroelectronics has announced that is now supplying its long-range, 77GHz radar chips to leading automotive customers.
24GHz systems have led the introduction of on-board automotive radar by enabling affordable, short- and mid-range smart-driving features such as blind-spot detection, collision avoidance, and lane-departure warning. ST has delivered over 35 million 24GHz radar transceiver chips to date, and continues to build its customer base as more and more markets demand vehicles enhanced with ADAS.
Next-generation features like high-speed adaptive cruise control require high-power-output, long-range radar, which is best implemented using 77GHz technology. The higher frequency allows smaller antenna sizes, and permits the same technology to be used for ADAS requiring short-range, medium-range, or long-range radar, hence simplifying system design and reducing time to market.
The new 77GHz transceiver, which is built using BiCMOS SiGe technology, integrates three 77GHz transmitters and four receivers. The multi-channel architecture of ST's new 77GHz radar chip enhances object recognition and resolution that translates into superior performance and dependability on the road.
"Our customers designing-in this device are positioned strongly, as demand for 77GHz technology in advanced markets is growing in mid-market and lower-cost vehicle platforms," commented Marco Monti, executive VP, general manager for ST's Automotive and Discrete Product Group.
ST is now sampling its multi-channel single-chip 77GHz radar transceiver to lead customers and is preparing to enter volume production in March 2017.
