MIPI multi-channel high-speed transmission solution: extremely thin coaxial cable assembly

In high-speed image transmission, camera module, and AI vision systems, the MIPI interface has become the mainstream data transmission standard. With the increasing demand for multi-channel data parallel transmission in systems, ensuring the timing synchronization and impedance consistency of each channel has become a key design issue. The extremely thin coaxial cable (Micro Coaxial Cable) with its independent shielding and controllable impedance characteristics has become an ideal choice for solving the consistency problem of MIPI multi-channels.

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Why must the MIPI channel be consistent?

The MIPI interface consists of multiple data channels and clock channels, which work simultaneously at rates up to several hundred MHz to several GHz. If the transmission delay of each channel is different, it may cause inconsistent arrival time of data, leading to image frame errors or display anomalies. At the same time, impedance inconsistency can cause signal reflection, crosstalk, and error codes, therefore ensuring consistency across multiple channels is the foundation of high-speed signal integrity.

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The natural advantages of ultra-fine coaxial lines

Extremely fine coaxial cables use a miniature structure consisting of a central conductor, insulation layer, shielding layer, and outer sheath, with each line being an independent shielding unit. Compared to traditional FPC or ribbon cables, Micro Coax offers a smaller diameter and higher flexibility while also providing high-frequency performance, precise impedance, and channel consistency. During the production process, the thickness of the dielectric and the size of the conductor can be strictly controlled to achieve a characteristic impedance of 50 Ω or 100 Ω, while ensuring that the delay of each channel is basically consistent. These advantages make it widely used in mobile phone cameras, industrial cameras, and vehicle imaging systems.

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Three, key control points for achieving channel consistency

To achieve synchronization and impedance matching in a multi-channel MIPI system, strict control must be maintained throughout the design and manufacturing process. Firstly, the length of each line must be strictly consistent, using fixed-length trimming and equal-length winding to ensure signal synchronization; secondly, precise control of impedance and termination structure must be maintained to avoid sudden impedance changes; the shielding layer and grounding method must be unified to reduce interference between channels; at the same time, ensure consistency in conductor, insulating material, and shielding process to avoid material differences leading to signal attenuation or phase shift. Finally, ensure that the cable meets the transmission requirements of high-speed MIPI through TDR testing, channel delay measurement, and high-speed signal function verification.

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Extremely thin coaxial cables can provide high-frequency performance, precise impedance, and channel consistency in MIPI multi-channel applications. By strictly controlling materials, length, shielding, and manufacturing processes, and with comprehensive testing and verification, multi-channel high-speed signal synchronization and stability can be ensured, enabling reliable operation of high-speed image systems.

I am[Suzhou Huichengyuan Electronic Technology], long-term focus on the design and customization of ultra-fine coaxial cable assemblies and high-speed signal cable assemblies. If you have related needs or technical consulting, welcome to contactManager Zhang: 18913228573 (WeChat same number)。