The evolution of in-vehicle networks is accelerating at an unprecedented pace, driven by the increasing demand for high-speed data transmission in autonomous and connected vehicles. With applications spanning from advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) to in-cabin entertainment and software-defined vehicle architectures, the need for robust, low-latency, and high-bandwidth communication is more critical than ever.

Vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) operating at 980nm are a key enabler for optical connectivity solutions that meet the stringent demands of automotive environments while offering scalable performance from 10G now to 50G and even 100G in the future. 

 

The Shift to Optical Networks in Vehicles 

Historically, automotive networks have relied on copper-based communication protocols such as CANBus, FlexRay, and low speed Ethernet over twisted-pair cables. However, as vehicles integrate more high-resolution sensors, LiDAR, and real-time data processing for autonomous functions, the limitations of electrical interconnects in terms of electromagnetic interference (EMI), bandwidth, weight, and power consumption become apparent. 

Optical fiber-based communications provide a compelling alternative due to its inherent advantages: 

• Higher Data Rates: Optical interconnects can efficiently scale to 10G, 25G, 50G, and even 100G transmission speeds, accommodating the bandwidth-intensive requirements of modern vehicles, all while utilizing the same fiber and fiber connectors for all bandwidths. 
• EMI Immunity: Unlike copper cables, fiber optics are not affected by EMI, ensuring reliable signal integrity in the presence of high-frequency electronic components. 
• Reduced Weight and Power Consumption: Optical fibers are significantly lighter than copper wiring, which contributes to vehicle weight reduction and improved energy efficiency. 
• Thermal Stability: 980nm VCSELs offer superior performance across wide temperature ranges, making them well-suited for automotive environments where extreme conditions are common. 

 

Why 980nm VCSELs for Automotive Networks? 

While VCSEL technology has been widely adopted in data centers and consumer electronics at 850nm, the transition to 980nm for automotive applications brings multiple advantages: higher speed, higher power, and higher reliability. 980nm VCSELs offer significant enhancements over 850nm VCSELs, particularly in high-performance and harsh environmental conditions.

These improvements include: 

• Higher gain in the active region for improved temperature range  
  • The use of strained material with higher Indium content enhances temperature stability. 
• Higher differential gain for improved speed  
  • Strained active regions contribute to faster modulation speeds. 
• Strained Aluminum-free active region for improved reliability  
  • Eliminates Indium-Aluminum issues that can degrade performance. 
  • Encourages defect movement parallel to active regions, effectively pinning defects and reducing performance degradation. 

These enhancements collectively make 980nm VCSELs a superior choice for automotive optical networks, offering greater resilience, efficiency, and scalability for future mobility solutions. 

 

Applications in Next-Generation Vehicles 

980nm VCSEL-based optical connectivity is poised to play a vital role in various automotive applications, including: 

• Sensor Fusion and ADAS: High-speed optical links facilitate real-time data transfer between multiple cameras, radar, and LiDAR sensors, enhancing object detection and situational awareness. 
• In-Vehicle Infotainment (IVI): The demand for 4K and even 8K video streaming within vehicles necessitates high-bandwidth, low-latency data transmission, which fiber optics can deliver efficiently. 
• Autonomous Driving Platforms: Autonomous vehicles require vast amounts of sensor data processing, with optical networks ensuring the seamless transfer of data between vehicle control units and decision-making algorithms. 
• Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) Communication: Optical networks can enhance in-vehicle data aggregation and integration with external V2X systems, improving vehicle safety and efficiency. 

 

Conclusion 

The adoption of 980nm VCSELs for in-vehicle optical networks represents a significant leap forward in enabling high-speed, reliable, and scalable data transmission. As automotive manufacturers transition to software-defined vehicle architectures, optical interconnects will be crucial in supporting the ever-growing data demands of autonomous and connected vehicles. With the ability to operate at 10G, 25G and even 50G, 980nm VCSELs provide a robust solution for the future of automotive networking, ensuring seamless communication across increasingly complex electronic ecosystems. 

As optical technology continues to advance, the integration of high-reliability VCSELs in automotive networks will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of mobility, delivering safer, more efficient, and data-driven transportation solutions.