Automotive designers are creating new zonal architectures in automotive applications with 10BASE-T1S Ethernet solutions. 10BASE-T1S technology enables low-speed devices to connect to a standard Ethernet network, eliminating the need for dedicated communications systems.
Expanding its portfolio of automotive-qualified Ethernet solutions, Microchip Technology recently announced a new family of LAN8650/1 MAC-PHY Devices qualified for automotive applications. The LAN8650 and LAN8651 MAC-PHYs include a Media Access Controller (MAC) and a Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) for connecting devices at the edge of automotive networks.
LAN8650/1 devices with integrated MAC and SPI allow designers to connect 8-, 16-, and 32-bit microcontrollers that do not have an integrated Ethernet MAC to 10BASE-T1S Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) networks. This allows sensors and actuators that interface between the digital world and the real world to become part of a fully Ethernet architecture. Connecting to even the simplest MCUs can reduce the size and overall cost of a project.
“Microchip continues to develop automotive connectivity solutions with its 10BASE-T1S product line, providing the industry with complete solutions that meet customer needs,” said Matthias Kaestner, corporate vice president of Microchip’s automotive business. “This new technology will connect sensors and actuators in the physical world to the cloud, enabling a seamless Ethernet architecture in vehicles, which in turn reduces development effort and time to market.”
These devices are equipped with Time Sensitive Networking (TSN) support, which enables time synchronization over long-range Ethernet networks. This timing synchronization is critical for many automotive applications, such as Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS).
Automotive-qualified LAN8650/1s are compliant with the AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualification standard for enhanced ruggedness in harsh environments, including extended operating temperature range from -40º to 125º C. Additionally, LAN8650/1s are safety-ready functional and are designed for use in ISO 26262 applications.
Ethernet solutions continue to gain momentum in the automotive industry due to well-established security protocols to keep network systems secure. These systems can be extended to the edges of the network without the need for major changes or new developments.
