MIPI Alliance Releases Improved MIPI UniPro v1.8

The MIPI Alliance released MIPI UniProv1.8, an update to the transport layer that is used to interconnect chipsets and peripheral components in mobile-connected devices. MIPI UniPro v1.8 delivers dramatically higher data speeds compared to the previous release and incorporates techniques that ensure the quality of high-throughput transmissions. The first adopter of this latest specification is the JEDEC Solid State Technology Association. JEDEC is using MIPI UniPro v1.8 to provide the interconnection layer for Universal Flash Storage (UFS) version 3.0 memory components deployed in smartphones, tablets and mobile computing products, as well as infotainment platforms and telematics hubs used in automotive systems.

 

The MIPI UniPro protocol is deployed on MIPI M-PHY at the physical layer. The new v1.8 release operates on the most recent version of MIPI M-PHY, v4.1, to achieve significant improvements in throughput, system performance and service quality.

 

MIPI UniPro v1.8 features include:

  • Capability to use the MIPI M-PHY v4.1 transmission mode known as “High Speed GEAR 4” to achieve 11.6 gigabits per second (Gb/s) data rates per lane—a 2x performance increase over the previous (v1.61) specification.
  • Ability to continuously monitor the bit error rate of forward and reverse links, as well as receiver performance. MIPI UniPro v1.8 can “retrain” the communication channel dynamically. The retraining feature updates link settings if needed to ensure a link delivers the same reliability and quality of service (QoS) at higher data speeds as it provided for lower speeds via the v1.61 specification.
  • The QoS features can be used to ensure reliability of data transmissions in systems that are subject to highly variable and potentially extreme temperature conditions as can be found, for instance, in automotive applications.
  • The QoS features can also monitor and address performance issues associated with aging interconnects to help extend the lifespan of deployed systems.
  • MIPI UniPro v1.8 links can be implemented on as few as four wires, which streamlines integration and helps reduce costs. Upgrading to the new release from v1.61 is convenient and provides backward compatibility to the previous specification.  

Interoperability Test Workshops

 

MIPI Alliance frequently hosts interoperability test workshops to help developers build successful implementations with MIPI UniPro. Information about future interoperability workshops is available, and, for more details, go MIPI