1. Why There Is No Universal HSC or HSL Pinout
Unlike FAKRA — which is a standardized 50 Ω coaxial connector with a defined center-pin-and-shell interface under DIN 72594-1 — HSC and HSL are compact shielded high-speed data connector systems whose pin configuration depends on the exact supplier, part number, and vehicle application.
- HSC (Amphenol) typically uses 0.50mm square terminals. Pin count, terminal arrangement, and signal assignment vary by specific connector series. It supports LVDS, USB 2.0, IEEE 1394, and digital camera interfaces — each with potentially different pin mapping.
- HSL (TE Connectivity) uses 0.50mm pitch terminals with up to 6 mechanical codings. Supported protocols include USB 2.0, LVDS, and GVIF. The pin configuration depends on the coding, connector variant, and vehicle platform.
A connector that looks similar on the outside can have a completely different pin assignment inside. This is why the part number and customer drawing are essential — visual identification alone is not reliable.
2. How to Find the Correct Pin Assignment
- Find the connector part number: Look for markings molded into the connector housing. This is the single most important piece of information.
- Check the supplier datasheet: Amphenol for HSC connectors, TE Connectivity for HSL connectors. The datasheet will show the terminal layout, pin numbering, and mechanical coding.
- Reference the customer drawing or wiring diagram: The vehicle platform or ECU manufacturer's documentation defines the actual signal assignment for each pin position.
- Use a sample cable as reference: If you have an original cable assembly, a continuity test can map the pin-to-pin connections. Label and photograph the sample before disassembly.
- When in doubt, contact us: Send a clear photo of the connector face, any housing markings, and any documentation you have. We can help identify the connector and suggest next steps.
3. What Information to Provide for a Cable Assembly Quote
| Information | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Mating connector part number | The single most important piece of data — determines the exact connector to use |
| Pin assignment / wiring table | Defines which pin connects to which pin at the other end |
| Sample cable (if available) | Can be used to verify pinout by continuity testing |
| Signal type | LVDS, USB, GVIF, camera serial — determines cable type and impedance requirements |
| Cable length | Total length and tolerance needed |
| Application / installation zone | Determines sealing, temperature, and vibration requirements |
4. Common Pinout Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming all HSC connectors have the same pinout: Different part numbers = different configurations. Never assume.
- Using a pinout from a different vehicle platform: Even if the connector looks identical, the pin assignment may be completely different between vehicle models or OEMs.
- Relying on wire color alone: Wire colors are not standardized across HSC/HSL cable assemblies. A red wire on one cable may carry +5V; on another, it may be a data line.
- Ignoring mechanical coding: HSL connectors have up to 6 mechanical codings. A mismatched coding may physically prevent mating — or worse, allow mating with the wrong pin assignment.
- Forcing a connector that does not fit: If a connector does not slide in smoothly, stop. Forcing it will damage both the connector and the receptacle.
5. Testing an HSC / HSL Cable Assembly
| Test | Method | Pass Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Continuity | Multimeter, pin-to-pin | < 1 Ω per circuit, matches pin assignment drawing |
| Shorts | Multimeter, pin-to-all-other-pins | No unintended continuity between circuits |
| Shield continuity | Milliohmmeter, shell-to-shell | Low resistance per customer specification or internal inspection standard |
| Impedance | TDR (Time Domain Reflectometer) | Per connector/cable specification (typically 100 Ω differential for LVDS) |
| Insertion loss | VNA (Vector Network Analyzer) | Per application requirement and cable length |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is there a standard HSC or HSL pinout?
A: No. There is no universal pinout. HSC (Amphenol) and HSL (TE) are different connector systems. Pinout depends on the exact part number, coding, vehicle platform, and OEM specification. Always verify against the customer drawing or sample cable.
Q: How do I find the correct pinout?
A: Find the connector part number → check the supplier datasheet → reference the customer drawing or wiring diagram → use a sample cable for verification. Do not rely on generic pinout references.
Q: Can I test with a multimeter?
A: For basic continuity, yes. But a multimeter cannot verify impedance, insertion loss, return loss, or signal integrity. For high-speed or production cable assemblies, VNA or TDR testing may be required depending on the application specification.
Q: Why is a drawing needed?
A: HSC/HSL connectors are not standardized like FAKRA. Pin assignment, signal protocol, and impedance requirements vary by platform. Without the drawing or sample cable, a correct pin-for-pin assembly cannot be guaranteed.
Q: What tools to assemble HSC / HSL?
A: Connector-specific crimp tooling per the manufacturer's application specification. HSC/HSL typically use 0.50mm pitch terminals. Generic crimp tools will not produce reliable terminations.
Need an HSC / HSL Cable Assembly with Verified Pinout?
Send us the mating connector part number, pin assignment or sample cable, cable length, and application. We will confirm the correct connector, wiring, and provide a quote.
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