Why Standardized SerDes Interfaces Are Essential for In-Vehicle Networks

Today, automotive technology is advancing faster than ever, with the latest electronic components now central to the design and success of new vehicles.

Jun. 17, 2025 – 

Rapidly evolving advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) are the stars of many new models, while autonomous driving systems (ADS) are a major focus of development. These innovations require the integration of more cameras, sensors, displays and computing resources from a growing ecosystem of suppliers. The high-speed data interfaces linking these components are also core to the success of these new onboard systems.

SerDes (serializer/deserializer) interfaces convert parallel data into serial data for high-speed, long-distance communication, using simple low-cost cables. In automotive in-vehicle networks, high-speed SerDes interfaces that leverage advanced digital signal processing techniques are used to connect cameras, lidars and in-vehicle displays to their corresponding electronic control units (ECUs).

Use of these SerDes interfaces is essential because they enable:

• High-speed, low-latency data transfer: A SerDes interface allows for the efficient transmission of large amounts of data at high speeds (multiple gigabits per second) and low-latency (microsecond), crucial for safety-critical applications.
• Longer cable lengths: SerDes interfaces can enable longer cable lengths compared with parallel communication interfaces, especially in harsh electromagnetic environments where cables are susceptible to the effects of electromagnetic interference (EMI).
• Reduced wiring: By requiring fewer wires for data transmission, enabling use of low-cost coax or shielded differential pair (SDP) cables, SerDes interfaces simplify wiring harnesses, reduce weight and lower cost.
• Reliability: Link layer protocols can enable ultra-low bit error rates, functional safety and security, enabling OEMs to meet the latest safety and cybersecurity regulations.

With this need to connect an ever-greater number of components, the benefits of an industry-standardized SerDes solution become even more pronounced. Standardization offers greater supply chain flexibility and vendor choice, enhanced interoperability, simplified design complexity, reduced development costs, and improved quality and reliability.

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