July 19, 2012, Seoul – NXP Semiconductors NV, the world's largest supplier of semiconductors for in-vehicle networks, today announced the UJA1018, an ultra-compact integrated solution supporting low-cost, high-efficiency custom automotive LED ambient lighting. The UJA1018 is the first Application Specific Standard Product (ASSP) for ambient lighting to employ Node Position Detection (NoPD) technology and is designed for Local Interconnect Networks (LIN). A key feature is that LIN addresses can be programmed individually after the LED modules are installed in the vehicle, rather than during the module manufacturing phase. Ambient LED lighting is becoming increasingly widespread in the automotive industry today. Automakers are utilizing it as a differentiator to enhance the driving experience. Additionally, OEMs can highlight their brand through the color and styling of the interior lighting, while car dealers can offer custom lighting options tailored to consumer preferences.

While LED modules in vehicles are currently programmed during the module manufacturing process, NXP's new integrated LIN switch-based node location detection method has made it possible for all LED modules to be configured individually even after they are mounted in the vehicle. Through this, it is expected that a new level of flexibility can be achieved, while manufacturing logistics and costs can be drastically reduced.

The UJA1018 creates an ultra-compact ambient lighting solution by integrating all analog functions, including a LIN transceiver, a LIN switch for node location detection, a voltage regulator for microcontrollers, and a driver for tricolor LEDs. In addition, the ultra-compact HVSON package supports the development of small modules. The UJA1018 not only meets the strong demands of OEMs but also complies with SAE J2602 and LIN conformity standards.

"Toni Versluijs, General Manager of In-Vehicle Networks at NXP Semiconductors, stated, 'Through the UJA1018 and proprietary LIN switch-based node location detection technology, NXP has enabled automotive OEMs to provide customized ambient lighting solutions to end consumers. Furthermore, this offers the benefits of reducing system costs and simplifying logistics for both OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers. Through this, NXP Semiconductors has further strengthened its position as a provider of virtually industry-standard automotive network solutions and taken another step closer to fulfilling its promise to connect the vehicles of today and the future.'"

"At UJA1018, HELLA is able to announce an ultra-compact LED ambient lighting solution that can be installed in any location within a vehicle," said Dr. Herbert Wambsganß, Development Manager at HELLA Interior Lighting Systems. "Node location detection technology, operated via an integrated LIN switch, enables configuration work to be performed after each ambient lighting module is mounted in the vehicle." "Therefore, since all modules within the vehicle can be kept identical, it is possible to achieve a high level of recycling as well as simplify logistics," he explained.

Release date
Samples are currently available.

Related links
- UJA1018 Data Sheet and Product Information Page: http://www.nxp.com/products/interface_and_connectivity/transceivers/lin_transceivers/UJA1018TK.html
- YouTube video about cost-effective and flexible NXP ambient lighting solutions: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fjC4-ETe2fg