NXP Implements Stamp-Sized Radar Sensor on Single CMOS Chip

NXP Semiconductors announced the smallest single-chip 77GHz radar transceiver that provides ultra-high resolution performance in a 7.5 x 7.5mm size.

NXP, a global provider of secure connected car technology, has expanded its automotive radar portfolio. The newly released single-chip 77GHz radar transceiver features ultra-high resolution performance while measuring a minimum size of just 7.5 x 7.5mm. Radar is a core technology for future Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), providing a means to accurately perceive the vehicle's surroundings and thereby reducing the burden on the driver. NXP has already provided working prototypes of its RFCMOS ICs to key customers, and they are currently undergoing field testing for Google's self-driving car project.

NXP's chips enable the implementation of next-generation radar sensor assemblies. The sensors are postage-stamp-sized and can be mounted 'invisibly' anywhere on the vehicle. This serves as a significant advantage in vehicle design as the number of sensors added during autonomous driving increases. Power consumption is only 40% of that of conventional radar ICs. Key safety applications include emergency stop, ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control), blind spot monitoring, oncoming vehicle warning, and automatic parking.

Torsten Lehmann, Senior Vice President of Infotainment and Driver Assistance at NXP, stated, “By developing the world’s smallest, fully integrated 77GHz chip, we will pave the way for the development of fully autonomous vehicles and accelerate the adoption of ADAS technology in the general automotive market.” He added, “Autonomous vehicles require a reliable, high-resolution 360-degree view of their surroundings. This has been a significantly difficult task for bulky conventional radar hardware. The automotive industry is actively moving to replace existing ultrasonic-based parking distance control systems with ‘invisible’ radar sensors to improve performance and functionality while eliminating unsightly holes in the bumper.”

According to IHS Research, radar-based ADAS is projected to reach 50 million units by 2021, with market share expected to increase rapidly over the next few years as the radar sensor market expands. To reach this 50 million unit level, an annual growth rate of 23% is required. In addition to size, power consumption, and affordability, the New Car Assessment Programs (NCAP) are also becoming another factor driving the growth of ADAS systems. NCAP exists globally and provides a reward system for verified ADAS systems, such as autonomous emergency braking and pedestrian protection systems.