Glossary comparison
MIPI CSI-2 vs MIPI DSI: what is the difference?
The difference
DSI carries images from a processor to a display, the opposite direction. CSI-2 carries images from a sensor to a processor. Both can use the same D-PHY or C-PHY physical layers.
CSI-2 carries images from a camera sensor into a processor. DSI carries images out of a processor to a display. The two share physical layers but are separate protocols.
The two terms
MIPI CSI-2
The near-universal interface between image sensors and application processors, carrying raw pixel data, embedded metadata and virtual channels over D-PHY or C-PHY lanes.
MIPI DSI
The MIPI Alliance interface for driving display panels in mobile and embedded systems, carrying pixel and command data over D-PHY or C-PHY lanes with very low pin count and power.
Side by side
| Field | MIPI CSI-2 | MIPI DSI |
|---|---|---|
| Stands for | MIPI Camera Serial Interface 2 | MIPI Display Serial Interface |
| Type | Acronym | Acronym |
| Domain | Interfaces & SerDes | Interfaces & SerDes |
| Group | Display and imaging interface | Display and imaging interface |