
What’s SLVS-EC?
Scalable Low-Voltage Signaling with Embedded Clock, abbreviated SLVS-EC, is a high-speed interface standard developed by Sony for fast, high-resolution image sensors. The interface’s simple protocol makes it easy to build camera systems. Featuring an embedded clock signal, it is a good choice for higher speeds or transmission over longer distances.

SLVS-EC features
High-speed transmission
Enables implementation for high-speed, high-resolution image sensors without adding pins or enlarging the package. Supports up to 5 Gbps/lane. (As of November 2020.)
Multi-lane functionality
Extremely versatile, with exceptional freedom in the connection configuration between image sensors and the FPGA/DSP.
- Multi-interface
- The base SLVS-EC configuration features 1–8 lanes, and using multiple interfaces enables high-speed data transfer.
- Multi-sensor
- Signals from multiple image sensors can be received by a single FPGA/DSP, for multi-camera systems or similar applications.
Without a clock lane and or need for wiring of equal length, SLVS-EC affords greater freedom in sensor arrangements.
- Multi-stream
- Enables simultaneous output of multiple types of images from a single image sensor.*1
- Example:
Full-resolution video + Full HD still images, or other combinations - *1: Multi-stream functionality is implemented in consumer camera sensors. (As of November 2020.)
Easy system implementation
– Uses the same 8b/10b encoding as in common interfaces. Can be connected to FPGAs or other common industrial camera components.
– With an embedded clock signal, SLVS-EC requires no skew adjustment between lanes and is a good choice for long-distance transmission.
– Simple protocol facilitates implementation.
SLVS-EC standard
SLVS-EC is standardized by the Japan Industrial Imaging Association (JIIA)
JIIA website (External Link)
For details on how to receive the latest version of the SLVS-EC Specification, please inquire us via ‘contact us’ below.
For the details of the licensing program of Standard Essential Patents, please click here.
*SLVS-EC and logo are trademarks of Sony Group Corporation.
Source: https://www.sony-semicon.co.jp/e/products/IS/industry/SLVS_EC_technology.html