1. What is HSAutoLink?
HSAutoLink is Molex's automotive high-speed data connector family, introduced in the late 2000s when the automotive industry first needed a standardized connector for USB 2.0, LVDS display links, and early infotainment data buses. It was one of the first purpose-built automotive connectors for digital data, predating the widespread adoption of automotive Ethernet.
The connector family has two generations:
- HSAutoLink I: 4-circuit (4-pin) connector for USB 2.0 (480 Mbps) and LVDS (up to 1.5 Gbps). Mechanical keying with secondary latch. Found in 2010-2020 era vehicles.
- HSAutoLink II: 12-circuit (12-pin) connector adding support for USB 3.0 (5 Gbps), HDMI, and early 100BASE-T1 Ethernet. Features improved shielding and an upgraded secondary locking mechanism.
While HSAutoLink remains in production for legacy service and carryover programs, Molex has expanded the family with HSAutoLink C (USB-C interface, up to 40 Gbps) for newer platforms. For automotive Ethernet, new vehicle designs should use H-MTD, MATEnet, or NETBridge instead.
2. HSAutoLink I Pinout Reference
| Pin | USB 2.0 Mode | LVDS Mode | Wire Color (Standard) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | VBUS (+5V) | Power (+5V / +12V) | Red |
| 2 | D− (Data Minus) | LVDS− (Data Negative) | White |
| 3 | D+ (Data Plus) | LVDS+ (Data Positive) | Green |
| 4 | GND | GND | Black |
HSAutoLink I's 4-pin layout is protocol-agnostic. Pins 2 and 3 always carry the differential data pair (100 Ω); Pins 1 and 4 carry power and ground respectively. The protocol is determined by the SerDes or USB PHY connected at each end, not by the connector.
3. HSAutoLink II Pinout Reference
| Pin Group | Pins | USB 3.0 Mode | HDMI Mode | 100BASE-T1 Mode |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USB 2.0 / LVDS pair | 1-4 | VBUS, D−, D+, GND | +5V, DDC SDA, DDC SCL, GND | V+, ETH+, ETH−, GND |
| SuperSpeed Tx pair | 5-6 | SSTX−, SSTX+ | TMDS 0−, TMDS 0+ | Reserved |
| SuperSpeed Rx pair | 7-8 | SSRX−, SSRX+ | TMDS 1−, TMDS 1+ | Reserved |
| AUX / Control | 9-12 | Reserved / Shield | TMDS 2 & Clock | Shield drain |
HSAutoLink II pin groups — protocol assignment by mode
The 12-pin HSAutoLink II is significantly more flexible than the 4-pin version. Its 12 circuits can be configured for multiple protocol combinations through Molex's configurable insert system, though the most common configurations are USB 3.0 (5 Gbps) and HDMI 1.4 (for infotainment display links).
4. HSAutoLink I vs II: Key Differences
| Parameter | HSAutoLink I | HSAutoLink II |
|---|---|---|
| Total pins | 4 | 12 (4 groups of 3) |
| USB support | USB 2.0 (480 Mbps) | USB 3.0 (5 Gbps) |
| Max data rate | 1.5 Gbps (LVDS) | 5 Gbps (USB 3.0); HSAutoLink C up to 40 Gbps |
| Ethernet support | No (insufficient pins) | 100BASE-T1 (limited) |
| Locking mechanism | Single secondary latch | Dual secondary latch + CPA |
| Shielding | Single-piece shell | Two-piece shell with ground spring |
| Status | Legacy (service parts) | Legacy (declining for new designs) |
5. Applications and Vehicle Compatibility
HSAutoLink-style connectors have been used in a variety of vehicle infotainment and telematics applications. HSAutoLink-style cable assemblies are mainly relevant for legacy infotainment, USB, display, and service-part applications. Availability, lead time, and replacement options should be checked by exact Molex part number or customer sample.
For replacement or service purposes, HSAutoLink-compatible connectors and cable assemblies remain available. For any new vehicle platform program, refer to the OEM-approved connector list and current-generation mating interfaces specified by the customer drawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is HSAutoLink?
A: HSAutoLink is Molex's automotive high-speed data connector family. HSAutoLink I (4 pins) supports USB 2.0 and LVDS; HSAutoLink II (12 pins) adds USB 3.0, HDMI, and limited Ethernet. It is a legacy platform; Molex has expanded the line with HSAutoLink C (USB-C) for newer applications.
Q: What is the difference between HSAutoLink I and II?
A: HSAutoLink I is a 4-pin connector for USB 2.0 and LVDS. HSAutoLink II is a 12-pin connector supporting USB 3.0, HDMI, and 100BASE-T1. The II version adds improved shielding and a dual secondary latch for higher vibration resistance.
Q: Is HSAutoLink still used in new vehicle designs?
A: Primarily no. HSAutoLink is a legacy platform for carryover programs and service parts. New designs should use H-MTD, MATEnet, or NETBridge for Ethernet, and Mini FAKRA for multi-camera applications.
Q: What vehicles use HSAutoLink?
A: HSAutoLink-style connectors have been used in various vehicle infotainment and telematics applications. For replacement or service-part applications, availability and compatibility should be checked by exact Molex part number or customer sample.
Q: Can I still buy HSAutoLink connectors?
A: HSAutoLink-compatible connectors and cable assemblies remain available for replacement, service, and legacy production programs. Availability and lead time should be confirmed by exact Molex part number or customer sample at the time of inquiry.
Need HSAutoLink Replacement Cable Assemblies?
We manufacture HSAutoLink I and II cable assemblies for service, retrofit, and legacy production programs. Also available: migration harnesses from HSAutoLink to current-generation H-MTD.
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