Hirose AU1-Compatible Automotive USB Type-C Cable Assemblies: AU1 to AU1 and AU1 to USB-C
A practical guide to AU1-compatible automotive USB Type-C cable assemblies, including locking-to-locking and locking-to-standard USB-C configurations for vehicle integration, electronic modules and development applications.
Quick reference: PCM-HD-0307 uses AU1-compatible locking connectors on both ends, while PCM-HD-0308 combines an AU1-compatible locking connector with a conventional USB Type-C connector. Both assemblies are independently manufactured by Premier Cable for compatible-interface applications.
Compatibility notice: Hirose and AU1 are referenced only to identify the intended compatible interface. The PCM-HD-0307 and PCM-HD-0308 cable assemblies shown in this article are independently manufactured products and are not represented as genuine Hirose products. Premier Cable is not affiliated with or endorsed by Hirose Electric.
Compatibility note: Mechanical compatibility alone does not confirm complete system compatibility. Connector keying, cable wiring, pin assignment, required USB functions, power requirements and the connected equipment interfaces should be confirmed before ordering a cable assembly.
Contents
1. Understanding the Hirose AU1 Series
The Hirose AU1 Series is an automotive USB Type-C connector system developed for in-vehicle applications. Compared with a conventional exposed USB Type-C plug, the AU1 architecture incorporates the Type-C interface into an automotive-style connector housing with a locking structure.
This type of interface is useful when a vehicle design requires USB Type-C connectivity together with more secure mechanical retention. AU1 also uses a Connector Position Assurance, or CPA, structure to help confirm that the mating connection is properly engaged.
Automotive Housing
The Type-C interface is incorporated into an automotive connector housing rather than being used only as an exposed consumer-style plug.
CPA Locking
The Connector Position Assurance structure helps confirm connector engagement and provides a more secure connection for internal vehicle installations.
USB Type-C Based
The interface is based on USB Type-C, while the actual functions available in a completed cable depend on its wiring and the requirements of the connected equipment.
Key point: References to AU1 in this article describe the compatible interface. The Premier Cable products shown below are independently manufactured AU1-compatible cable assemblies.
2. Why Use a Locking Automotive USB-C Interface?
USB Type-C provides a compact interface for modern electronic systems, but an internal vehicle connection can have different mechanical requirements from a USB-C cable used with consumer electronics.
Connections installed behind a dashboard, inside a center console or between electronic modules may be difficult to access after vehicle assembly. A locking connector housing can therefore be useful where the system requires improved retention and controlled mating.
| Feature | Standard USB Type-C | AU1-Style Automotive Interface |
|---|---|---|
| Interface Type | Conventional USB Type-C plug | USB Type-C based interface in an automotive housing |
| Retention | Standard Type-C retention | Additional automotive locking structure |
| Typical Installation | Accessible electronic equipment and user-facing ports | Internal vehicle modules and secured connections |
| Selection Consideration | Standard USB-C mating interface | Connector compatibility, keying and system wiring must be confirmed |
3. PCM-HD-0307: AU1-Compatible to AU1-Compatible Automotive USB Type-C Cable
PCM-HD-0307 is an independently manufactured AU1-compatible automotive USB Type-C cable assembly with locking connector housings on both ends. It is intended for systems where both connected devices use compatible AU1-style mating interfaces.
The locking-to-locking configuration can be used for internal connections between compatible vehicle electronic modules where the same secured interface is required on both ends. The exact electrical functions should be defined according to the connected equipment and project wiring requirements.
PCM-HD-0307 - AU1-Compatible Locking-to-Locking Cable
AU1-Compatible Locking Connector Detail
Where This Configuration Can Be Used
For compatible electronic modules that require the same locking interface at both ends.
Possible applications include compatible head units, displays, interface modules and other in-vehicle electronics.
Suitable for projects requiring a secured Type-C based interface rather than an exposed conventional USB-C connection.
Refer to the technical drawing for connector configuration, dimensions, cable length, pin assignment and other assembly details.
4. PCM-HD-0308: AU1-Compatible to Standard USB Type-C Cable
PCM-HD-0308 is an independently manufactured cable assembly with an AU1-compatible locking connector on one end and a conventional USB Type-C connector on the other. It is intended for applications where one device uses a compatible automotive locking interface and the opposite device uses a standard USB-C receptacle.
This configuration can be useful in vehicle integration, development equipment, validation setups and other systems requiring these two physical interfaces. Cable wiring and electrical functions should be confirmed for the specific application before use.
PCM-HD-0308 - AU1-Compatible to Standard USB Type-C Cable
AU1-Compatible Locking Connector and Standard USB-C End Detail
Important: An AU1-compatible-to-USB-C cable should not be treated as a universal USB-C adapter. Connector fit alone does not confirm that the required data, power or other signal functions are supported by both connected devices.
Refer to the technical drawing to confirm connector orientation, dimensions, cable construction and project-specific wiring requirements.
5. AU1-Compatible to AU1-Compatible vs AU1-Compatible to USB-C
The main difference between PCM-HD-0307 and PCM-HD-0308 is the connector required at each end of the cable. Selection should begin with the mating interface on both connected devices.
| Configuration | PCM-HD-0307 | PCM-HD-0308 |
|---|---|---|
| Connector End A | AU1-compatible locking connector | AU1-compatible locking connector |
| Connector End B | AU1-compatible locking connector | Standard USB Type-C |
| Locking Connection | Both ends | Automotive interface end only |
| Typical Configuration | Compatible locking interface to compatible locking interface | Compatible locking interface to standard USB-C |
| Before Ordering | Confirm both mating connectors and wiring | Confirm locking interface, USB-C interface and wiring requirements |
Simple selection rule: Use PCM-HD-0307 when both connected devices require compatible locking interfaces. PCM-HD-0308 is intended for systems using the compatible locking interface on one side and standard USB Type-C on the other.
6. Typical Applications for AU1-Compatible Automotive USB-C Cables
AU1-compatible cable assemblies are intended for projects where the required equipment uses a compatible automotive locking USB Type-C interface.
In-Vehicle Infotainment
Compatible connections for infotainment modules, displays, interface modules and related vehicle electronics.
Center Console & USB Modules
Cable connections for compatible USB interface modules and electronic equipment installed inside the vehicle.
Development & Validation
AU1-compatible-to-USB-C assemblies can also be used in compatible development, prototype and validation setups where the required connector arrangement matches.
For other automotive high-speed interconnect options, see our HSAutoLink cable assemblies and adapters .
7. Custom AU1-Compatible Automotive USB-C Cable Assemblies
Automotive USB-C projects can require different connector combinations, cable lengths and wiring configurations. Premier Cable can manufacture AU1-compatible cable assemblies according to the mating interface and project requirements provided by the customer.
Connector Configuration
- AU1-compatible to AU1-compatible
- AU1-compatible to standard USB Type-C
- Required keying and orientation
- Application-specific connector combination
Cable Requirements
- Custom cable length
- Shielding requirements
- Required wiring configuration
- Power and signal requirements
Project Information
- Mating connector information
- Pin assignment
- Device or module model
- Drawing or existing cable sample
Recommended information for a custom cable inquiry: provide the mating connector information, required connector configuration at both ends, cable length, pinout, electrical requirements and quantity. A drawing, cable photo or existing sample can help confirm the required assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hirose AU1 Series?
Hirose AU1 is an automotive USB Type-C connector series that incorporates a Type-C interface into an automotive connector housing with a locking structure.
Are PCM-HD-0307 and PCM-HD-0308 genuine Hirose cable assemblies?
No. PCM-HD-0307 and PCM-HD-0308 are independently manufactured Premier Cable products designed for AU1-compatible interface applications. They are not represented as genuine Hirose products.
What is the difference between PCM-HD-0307 and PCM-HD-0308?
PCM-HD-0307 uses AU1-compatible locking connectors on both ends. PCM-HD-0308 uses an AU1-compatible locking connector on one end and a conventional USB Type-C connector on the other.
Can an AU1-compatible-to-USB-C cable connect to any USB-C device?
Not automatically. Mechanical connector compatibility does not guarantee electrical compatibility. Pinout, required USB functions, power configuration and the specifications of both connected devices should be confirmed.
Can AU1-compatible cable assemblies be customized?
Yes. Connector configuration, cable length, pin assignment, shielding, wiring and labeling can be specified according to the project requirements.
Need an AU1-Compatible Cable for Your Automotive Project?
Send us the mating connector information, cable configuration, required length, pinout, electrical requirements and quantity. Premier Cable can manufacture locking-to-locking, locking-to-USB-C and other application-specific cable assemblies based on your project requirements.
For replacement or equipment-specific projects, a drawing, existing cable photo or sample can help us confirm the required connector and wiring configuration.
