C-KLIC – High-speed automotive connector system – maximum efficiency for multi-functional applications

The path to the future of mobility lies in smart, multi-functional solutions for fast and secure data transmission. The innovative C-KLIC automotive connector system is already making this future a reality today:

C-KLIC is an in-house development by MD ELEKTRONIK. This versatile solution is based on USB-C technology. Differential data pairs for data transmission and options such as charging and transmitting additional control signals make C-KLIC the ideal system for versatile, application-specific use in the automotive sector.

 

Product information 

 

Download

Do you have any questions?

 

Contact

Supplementary / extended product documents

Download

Your advantages

Multi-functional applications

  • Backbone data communication (board-to-board)
  • Transmission of standard protocols such as PCIe, DisplayPort, HDMI etc.
  • USB 3.2 Gen2x2 (10 Gbps max.)
  • Alternative high-speed data protocols (4x 10 Gbps max.)
  • Direct delivery of power to connected devices, or charging of up to 100 W @ 5 A (Power Delivery mode)

Replaces up to 6 cables 

  • Multi-functionality through the possibility of specifically (proprietarily) using all 24 connector pins
  • This provides four freely available differential MultiGiG high-speed data pairs (10 Gbps each), high-speed data cables (480 Mbps), and power supply cables for up to 5 A at 20 V (max. 100 W) 
  • Cost and weight savings due to reduced material usage
  • Significantly reduced effort for routing, connecting, and testing
  • Up to 60% space savings for PCB connectors on the control unit (ECU)

Engineering and manufacturing from a single source

  • Individually adapted lengths and codings for your application in the vehicle
  • Qualified in our own accredited test laboratory – quickly and independently

Reliable delivery

  • Decentralized, global production and logistics network
  • Independent foundation company
  • Automated, modular production for maximum flexibility

Portfolio-Overview

C-KLIC

 

 

  • 180°
  • Unsealed
  • Cable lengths & keying options available on request

C-KLIC SD

 

 

  • 180°
  • Sealed
  • Cable lengths & keying options available on request

C-KLIC Slim

 

 

  • 180°
  • Unsealed
  • Cable lengths & keying options available on request

C-KLIC PCB-Connector

 

  • Pin in Paste (PiP)
  • Unsealed
  • Keying options available on request

C-KLIC SD PCB-Connector

 

  • Pin in Paste (PiP)
  • Sealed
  • Keying options available on request

C-KLIC Slim PCB-Connector

 

  • Pin in Paste (PiP)
  • Unsealed
  • Keying options available on request

C-KLIC – more than just a USB interface

The multi-functional C-KLIC automotive connector system supports the widest variety of communication standards and communication modes. The universal, automotive-capable data transmission system seamlessly transmits high data frequencies and data rates from the widest variety of devices for varied applications: 

USB protocols HDMI protocols PCI Express protocols Ethernet protocols DisplayPort Alternative data protocols
MD ELEKTRONIK smartphone integration in car using USB-C data cable for navigation and charging

Applications

C-KLIC supports varied applications in the automotive sector.

The most common applications include:

 
• Display/Infotainment
• Control unit to control unit
• User interface for passengers (e.g.: Apple Car Play, Android Auto)
• Surround View
• And many more…
 
Power Charging USB 2.0 (480 Mbps) USB Power Delivery bis 100 W (@ 5 A) USB 3.2 Gen1 (5 Gbps / SuperSpeed) USB 3.2 Gen2x2 (10 Gbps) High-speed data transmission with over 10 Gbps Transmission of standard protocols such as PCIe, DisplayPort, HDMI etc. Board-to-Board

Application examples

MD ELEKTRONIK USB-C data cable connecting smartphone in vehicle for navigation and charging

USB charging
with data transmission

Data transmission
USB 2.0 High-Speed (480 Mbps)
USB 3.2 Gen2x2 (10 Gbps)

Vbus
Power Delivery Specification (5 V – 20 V / max. 5 A)

Additional functions
E.g. lighting, temperature monitoring, real time detection Vdrop, etc.

MD ELEKTRONIK USB-C data cable connecting laptop in vehicle for charging and data transfer

USB data

Data transmission
USB 2.0 High-Speed (480 Mbps)
USB 3.2 Gen2x2 (10 Gbps)

Additional functions
Power supply, USB alternate modes

MD ELEKTRONIK USB-C data cable connecting smartphone in vehicle for navigation and charging

High-speed data
transmission

Option 1:
Data transmission
Parallel via 4 differential pairs

Additional functions
Power supply (max. 5 A), 2 additional unshielded control cables

Tech highlights

Greater efficiency via zonal architecture

High-performance computers (HPC) communicate with decentralized zone controllers. These are networked via Ethernet and communicate via high-frequency backbone connections. The result: simplified design, reduced number of cables in the cable harness, improved energy efficiency and more efficient data communication.

Higher data performance thanks to 4 differential data pairs

Data is transmitted in one cable with 4 parallel, high-frequency-suitable, differential data pairs (10 Gbps each). The result: entirely new possibilities for networking modern vehicle architectures.

Maximum cost efficiency through less material and installation time

With C-KLIC, only one high-speed connection for multi-functional applications is required. The result: the costs of materials, installation, installation time and electrical testing are reduced. Possible sources of error are reduced in equal proportion.

The mega trend for vehicles – minimalistic design and technology

Minimalism and reduction define the aesthetics of the vehicle cockpit of the future. More than just the pleasure of the self-driving experience, visual and haptic experiences and increasing infotainment options are becoming the center of attention. Reliable and safe networking in the vehicle make this possible.

C-KLIC is one step ahead of the minimalist mega trend in cars. Reduced to just one interface, the universal solution safely and reliably transmits high-speed data from chip to chip – at the same time creating space and design freedom for enhanced comfort, a better design and more style and class in the vehicle.

Technical Information

Rated voltage (max.) < 20 V
Rated current on power pins 1.25 A / Pin (5 A @ 4x Vbus parallel)
Crosstalk (NEXT) ≤ -50 dB up to 9 GHz
Contact resistance max. 40 mOhm / Pin
Transmission rate USB 3.2 Gen2x2
Insulation resistance min. 100 MOhm
Mating cycles tested to 100
Mating force ≤ 45 N
Unmating force ≤ 40 N
Retention force latch ≥ 110 N
Keying efficiency ≥ 135 N
Cable assembly -40 °C to +105 °C
PCB connector -40 °C to +105 °C
Protection class IP67 (C-KLIC SD)
Testing based on
LV 214 / USCAR for connectors
LV 124 / USCAR for cable assemblies

FAQ

The C-KLIC automotive connector system has been designed and optimized for the USB 3.2 Gen2x2 standard. This enables data rates of 10 Gbps and more. The transmission of protocols such as PCIe or DisplayPort is also possible as well as alternative data protocols.

No, in principle most standard protocols up to 10 Gbps and higher, such as PCIe or Display Port, can be considered. Automotive Ethernet can be realized under certain conditions.

Yes. All common codings according to automotive standards can be implemented in the prescribed colors as required. The plug-in connectors for multi-functional applications can be clearly assigned at any time.

No, due to the coded, automotive-capable housing, this function is omitted. Connectors can only be plugged into the multi-functional automotive connector system on one side. However, this means that all of the connector’s 24 pins can be assigned individually and used specifically (proprietarily).

No, this function is eliminated by a keyed, automotive-grade housing. Connectors can only be inserted into the multifunctional automotive connector system in one way. However, this allows all 24 pins of the connector to be assigned individually and used for specific (proprietary) functions.

Christoph is your expert for C-KLICK at MD

“With C-KLIC, we have achieved a milestone in the development of our own plug-in components: combining up to six cables in just one offers enormous potential for optimizing on-board networks.”

Email: christoph.zauner@md-elektronik.de
Tel.: +49 8638 / 604 – 480

About Christoph Zauner

Christoph Zauner is Manager in the area of Technical Product Management at MD. His focus is on the area of C-KLIC products, automotive PCB plug-in connectors and electronic components. His extensive professional experience in electronics development sets him apart in this area of activity. What inspires him most about his job: “being able to design new products right from the start is a special privilege. Close contact with customers working together in an international team and the resulting intercultural experiences make my job particularly interesting.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Contact us