Arasans Emmc 51 IP Boosts ADAS and Autonomous Vehicle Tech

Imagine future vehicles that not only transport passengers safely but also seamlessly stream high-definition videos and update map data in real time during transit. This vision relies on high-speed, reliable storage technology. Arasan Chip Systems has addressed this growing demand with its Automotive Safety Integrity Level B (ASIL B) compliant eMMC 5.1 IP solution, designed to power advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving applications.

Embedded MultiMediaCard (eMMC) technology serves as a critical storage medium in mobile devices, where its performance directly impacts user experience. As smartphones and tablets demand greater capacity and bandwidth for video, images, and audio content, traditional eMMC solutions face limitations. The JEDEC-released eMMC 5.1 specification resolves these challenges by introducing command queue technology that transfers software overhead to the controller, significantly improving data transfer efficiency. The specification also implements enhanced strobe technology at the PHY layer to boost operational reliability. Notably, eMMC 5.1 maintains backward compatibility with existing eMMC 4.51 and 5.0 devices, facilitating smooth transitions for users.

Arasan's comprehensive eMMC Total IP solution—comprising both controller IP and PHY IP—has achieved ASIL B certification, meeting architectural metrics for Single Point Fault Metric (SPFM) and Latent Fault Metric (LFM). This certification enables customers to develop ISO 26262-compliant system-on-chip (SoC) designs that satisfy stringent safety requirements for ADAS and autonomous driving applications. In automotive electronics, where safety remains paramount, Arasan's certified solution provides manufacturers with a dependable storage option that reduces system development risks.

Beyond its core eMMC IP components, Arasan offers programmable general-purpose I/O PADs with multiple operational modes:

• Output mode: Features predefined source/drain impedance
• Open drain mode: Permits external circuit voltage control
• Input mode: Receives external signals
• Tri-state mode: Maintains high-impedance output
• Weak pull-up/pull-down mode: Provides minimal voltage stabilization

These specially designed I/O PADs integrate seamlessly with Arasan's eMMC 5.1 and 5.0 host controller IP, simplifying system design while offering flexible configuration options for diverse application requirements.

Arasan has established itself as an eMMC technology pioneer since introducing the industry's first HS400 PHY in 2013, with implementations across multiple process nodes. The company's engineering team continues to advance eMMC solutions in alignment with evolving specifications, maintaining its position as a leader in high-performance, reliable storage IP.

ADAS and autonomous driving systems process massive volumes of sensor data from cameras, radar, and LiDAR units—all requiring rapid storage and processing for real-time decision making. eMMC 5.1's combination of high-speed data transfer (up to 3.2Gbps in HS400 mode) and robust reliability makes it ideal for critical automotive functions including:

• Vehicle data logging for incident analysis
• High-definition map storage for navigation
• Image/video retention for object recognition
• Over-the-air software updates

The technology's advantages extend beyond performance to include compact form factors, low power consumption, and enhanced data security through improved signal integrity techniques.

As automotive systems evolve toward higher levels of autonomy, storage performance requirements will continue escalating. Arasan remains committed to advancing eMMC technology through ongoing innovation, ensuring its solutions meet both current demands and future challenges in automotive electronics. The company's ASIL B-certified eMMC 5.1 IP provides a foundation for next-generation vehicle architectures while demonstrating the critical role of storage technology in enabling safer, more intelligent transportation systems.