Virtual Channel ID Support on GMSL
Virtual Channel ID: MIPI Protocol Parameter
Virtual Channel ID is a MIPI protocol parameter, part of the CSI-2 standard stream payload. Virtual Channel ID is not a GMSL concept but it is highly common to use both GMSL and Virtual Channel ID.
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CSI-2 defines that the signal can handle up to 4 VCID identifiers, which means there could be up to 4 different streams embedded within a single MIPI signal. In a MIPI signal with 2 different streams, you should make sure both have different VCIDs, in order to be properly decoded by the host system.
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For GMSL deserializers with IPI output interfaces such as the MAX9286, the VCID of the stream or streams is totally configured, depending on the application and the host system processing the signal. For this technology, cameras need to be synchronized in order to get Virtual Channel working. In RidgeRun, we have developed a GSML driver that can handle Virtual Channels using two synchronized cameras.
Also, for GMSL2, the serializer and deserializer are capable of parsing Virtual Channel ID using 4 pipes and overriding the Virtual Channel ID if needed. This can be done on the deserializer side. For this technology, synchronization is not required.
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Key Virtual Channel ID Features
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Up-to 4 streams embedded on the signal.
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GMSL can override the Virtual Channel ID.
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Note: RidgeRun assumes that there are no hardware issues that would delay the development process (it will increase costs). In case of problems with your hardware, RidgeRun will bill up to 20 hours of engineering services for the time needed to inform you of what is wrong. If it has to be created from scratch, driver delivery time is 3 to 4 weeks from receipt of hardware.
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Platforms Supported by Virtual Channel ID and GMSL
Jetson TX2
Jetson Xavier