oToBrite has introduced the GMSL2 Repeater, a compact device designed to double the transmission distance of rugged camera-to-SoC (System-on-Chip) links to 30 m on large unmanned vehicles and off-highway machines. The repeater regenerates the GMSL2 signal at the midpoint of the connection, extending the typical 15 m reach of a standard link.
The device addresses challenges in applications where cameras are mounted on boom arms, harvesting heads or vehicle perimeters, positions that are often outside the reliable range of standard cabling. By using the GMSL2 Repeater, system designers can avoid relocating the central compute unit or redesigning the cable architecture.
The repeater installs inline between the camera and the host, recovering the incoming GMSL2 signal and retransmitting a clean copy. This signal regeneration process, rather than analog boosting, adds under 1 microsecond of latency. The device features one GMSL2 input and one GMSL2 output on FAKRA Type Z connectors, runs at 6Gbps and draws power over the same coaxial cable as the camera, eliminating the need for a separate power supply.
Designed for permanent outdoor use, the GMSL2 Repeater measures 34.6 by 36 by 19 mm. It has an IP69K ingress protection rating when mated to a cable connector of the same standard, enabling it to withstand high-pressure washdowns. The operational temperature range is from minus 40 to 85 degrees Celsius.
Primary applications include heavy construction, mining, agricultural and forestry equipment. The repeater is also suited for long-haul trucking, outdoor autonomous mobile robots and unmanned ground vehicles. It is designed to work with oToBrite's line of GMSL2 cameras, which range from 1 to 8 megapixels.
Availability is scheduled for August 2026.
Key specifications include:
- Interface: GMSL2, one input and one output
- Connectors: FAKRA Type Z
- Data rate: 6Gbps
- Power: 10.5 to 17V DC over Power over Coax, 1.3W maximum (excluding camera power)
- Operating temperature: minus 40 to 85 degrees Celsius
- Ingress protection: IP69K when mated to an IP69K-rated cable connector
- Dimensions: 34.6 by 36 by 19 mm
- Added latency: under 1 microsecond
- Extended reach: 30 m with a single repeater
