Short PWM code: A step towards smarter automotive sensors

Abstract

Digital sensors offer the possibility to increase globally the functionality of automotive systems and at the same time to further reduce their cost. The Single Edge Nibble Transmission (SENT) digital communication protocol is a promising low-cost solution for communication between sensor satellites and a microcontroller. This paper presents the Short PWM Code (SPC) protocol aiming at extending the SENT communication link in terms of functionality, performance and cost efficiency. SPC provides application relevant functionalities which are not included in SENT while still keeping as close as possible to the original protocol. In particular: bi-directionality, syn-chronicity and bus capability.