New Ethernet Solutions for Automotive and Industrial Zonal Architectures

Modern automotive, industrial, and robotics systems integrate an increasing number of communicating subsystems, driving the industry toward fully Ethernet-based networks. To address this evolution, designers must meet strict constraints regarding wiring complexity reduction and zonal architecture simplification. Microchip Technology's new 10BASE-T1S components fulfill these requirements by extending Ethernet connections directly to the network edge while complying with AEC-Q100 automotive quality standards and ISO 26262 functional safety. Based on the VelocityDRIVE offering, this range introduces multidrop connectivity solutions featuring a standardized interface.

Technical Specifications of 10BASE-T1S Components
The LAN8679 PMD transceiver integrates a standardized Open Alliance 3-Pin interface within a compact 8-pin VDFN package, minimizing physical connections and adapting to space-constrained edge nodes. The LAN8680 transceiver incorporates the same capabilities while adding System Basis Chip features such as power management, sleep mode control, and watchdog supervision to enhance operational reliability. Additionally, the LAN8660X/1X/2X terminal node family combines a PMD transceiver with a single-chip remote control protocol architecture, enabling the design of integrated edge nodes without external components for control, lighting, and audio processing applications.

Multidrop Topology and Complexity Reduction
The multidrop topology of the 10BASE-T1S standard allows a single bus to connect at least eight nodes synchronously. This configuration eliminates intermediate gateways and decreases overall harness weight, thereby reducing hardware integration costs. Direct connection of sensors and actuators at the network edge optimizes bandwidth and simplifies data transmission in industrial automation, robotics, as well as aerospace and defense systems.

Additional Context:
This section details technical specifications and competitive benchmarking not included in the original product announcement

The 10BASE-T1S protocol (IEEE 802.3cg) provides 10 Mbps Ethernet communication over a single pair of twisted wires for a maximum distance of 25 meters in a multidrop topology. Compared to traditional fieldbuses such as CAN FD or LIN, 10BASE-T1S offers higher nominal bandwidth and native IP protocol compatibility, avoiding protocol conversions at zonal gateways. Competing solutions in the Single Pair Ethernet market include various physical layer transceivers compliant with the IEEE 802.3cg standard, but Microchip's integration of System Basis Chip functions and the Open Alliance 3-Pin interface within 8-pin packages distinguishes itself through a reduced footprint and direct compliance with automotive industry requirements.

Edited by Sucithra Mani, Induportals editor – adapted by AI.

www.microchip.com