Intelligent network interface controller chosen for flagship infotainment system

Microchip has announced that Kia Motors Corporation is enriching its infotainment system with powerful smart-phone connectivity in its flagship Kia K900 luxury sedan (known as 'Quoris' in some countries), using Microchip's OS81110 intelligent network interface controller (INIC). Building on years of experience using Microchip's MOST INICs, Kia adopted the latest MOST150 standard for the 2015 K900 in order to take advantage of its Internet-connectivity capabilities. To date, more than 170 million MOST interface controllers have been installed in 184 car models since 2001. Kia and all major carmakers have for many years successfully implemented MOST technology in their multi-node infotainment networking systems, as it provides a field-proven, low-risk, whole-system solution. The MOST150 standard meets Kia's Internet-connectivity requirements. This latest version of MOST technology continues to predictably and efficiently transport video, audio, packet and control data throughout the vehicle without time-synchronization protocols, using dedicated channels for minimal processor overhead in the main infotainment control unit processors, says the company. "MOST150 provides us with a platform on which to create systems that bring our customers' digital lives into the car," said Soon-Nam Lee, vice president, Overseas Marketing Group, Kia Motors Corporation. "This technology enables our newest cars to seamlessly connect drivers and occupants to the Internet and the whole world outside the car." Dan Termer, Microchip's Automotive vice president, added: "The K900 is Kia's flagship vehicle, and we are excited about their selection of our MOST150 devices for its infotainment system. Kia has been using MOST technology to create compelling systems for their customers for several years now, and the K900 showcases their latest achievements, where in-vehicle networking technology is a key differentiator." MOST150 also provides 150 Mbps performance and proven electromagnetic-compatibility (EMC) behaviour. All MOST INICs offer industry-standard hardware interfaces to processor and peripheral devices for the efficient routing of streaming, packet and control data, which greatly simplifies module designs. End users can immediately access the vehicle's infotainment system, due to the MOST INIC's ultra-fast network start-up behaviour. The MOST Cooperation standards enable automotive OEMs and their Tier 1 suppliers with a proven and well-supported methodology for defining and implementing high-bandwidth infotainment and Advanced Driver Assistance (ADAS) systems, including a standard physical layer and a robust method for system management and control with superior reliability and Quality of Service (QoS). Using MOST technology also results in reduced weight for easier compliance with environmental regulations, says the company.