STMicroelectronics launches navigation chip for auto

STMicroelectronics, a global semiconductor company with customers across the spectrum of electronics applications, has introduced what it calls the world-first automotive satellite-navigation chip that delivers high-quality position data needed by advanced driving systems.

Part of ST’s Teseo V family, the STA8135GA is the first automotive-qualified GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receiver to integrate a triple-band positioning measurement engine on-chip, in addition to standard multi-band Position-Velocity-Time (PVT) and dead-reckoning. Triple band has historically been used in professional applications such as surveying, mapping, and precision agriculture that demand millimeter accuracy with minimal reliance on correction data.

Until now only available in chipsets or modules, which are larger and more expensive than ST’s single-chip solution, triple-band enables the receiver to efficiently acquire and track the largest number of satellites in multiple constellations and is useful in urban areas as well as forested areas.

Bringing this capability for the auto sector in a compact and convenient package, the STA8135GA helps driver-assistance systems make accurate decisions about the road ahead. The multi-constellation receiver delivers raw information for the host system to run any precise-positioning algorithm, such as PPP/RTK (Precise Point Positioning / Real-Time Kinematic). The STA8135GA also enhances the performance of in-dash navigation systems, telematics equipment, smart antennas, and V2X communication systems, as well as marine navigation systems, drones, and other vehicles. The STA8135GA is housed in a 7mm x 11mm x 1.2mm BGA package. Samples are available now and full qualification AEC-Q100 and start of production are scheduled in Q1 2022.

“The high precision and single-chip integration delivered by the STA8135GA satellite receiver enables the creation of reliable and affordable navigation systems that enable vehicles to be safer and more context aware,” said Luca Celant, General Manager, ADAS, ASIC and Audio Division, Automotive and Discrete Group, STMicroelectronics.