In a significant development for the automotive industry, Microchip Technology, a Nasdaq-listed semiconductor company, has introduced a new family of LAN8650/1 MAC-PHY devices tailored for automotive applications. This innovative solution promises to simplify the integration of low-speed devices into standard Ethernet networks, revolutionizing automotive connectivity and zonal architectures.
The LAN8650 and LAN8651 MAC-PHY devices come equipped with a Media Access Controller (MAC) and Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI), enabling designers to seamlessly connect 8-, 16-, and 32-bit microcontrollers that lack built-in Ethernet MAC compatibility to 10BASE-T1S Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) networks. By doing so, these devices facilitate the integration of sensors and actuators into an all-Ethernet architecture, thereby reducing both the size and cost of automotive designs.
Matthias Kaestner, Corporate Vice President of Microchip’s automotive business, emphasized the significance of this technological advancement, stating, “Microchip continues to develop automotive connectivity solutions with its line of 10BASE-T1S products, providing the industry with turnkey solutions that meet customers’ requirements.” Kaestner further highlighted that this advancement would enable a seamless Ethernet architecture in vehicles, substantially reducing development effort and time to market.
One key feature of the LAN8650/1 devices is their support for Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN). This capability ensures synchronized timing across extensive Ethernet networks, which is crucial for various automotive applications, including Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS).
Moreover, these automotive-qualified MAC-PHYs adhere to the AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualification standard, enhancing their robustness to withstand harsh environmental conditions. They also boast an extended operational temperature range from -40ºC to 125ºC and are designed to meet the requirements of ISO 26262 applications, reflecting their functional safety readiness.
The adoption of Ethernet solutions within the automotive sector is on the rise due to their well-established security protocols, which ensure network system security. With the introduction of LAN8650/1 MAC-PHY devices, this trend is expected to gain further momentum. The devices enable the extension of Ethernet systems to the edges of automotive networks without the need for extensive modifications or new development, offering a more efficient and cost-effective solution for OEMs seeking enhanced connectivity options.
Microchip’s LAN8650/1 MAC-PHY devices represent a significant step forward in advancing automotive connectivity, aligning with the industry’s evolving needs for streamlined and efficient solutions. As automotive designers continue to explore innovative zonal architectures, this development marks a noteworthy milestone in the evolution of automotive connectivity technology.
