Connect automotive devices with new 10BASE-T1S Ethernet solutions

Automotive designers are creating new zonal architectures in automotive applications with 10BASE-T1S Ethernet solutions. The 10BASE-T1S technology makes it possible for low-speed devices to connect to a standard Ethernet network, eliminating the need for dedicated communication 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 Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) to connect devices at the edge of automotive networks.

The LAN8650/1 devices with a built-in MAC and SPI enable designers to connect 8-, 16-, and 32-bit microcontrollers that do not have a built-in Ethernet MAC to 10BASE-T1S Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) networks. This allows sensors and actuators that interface between the digital and the real world to become part of an all-Ethernet architecture. Connecting to even the simplest MCUs can reduce the overall size and cost of a design.

“Microchip continues to develop automotive connectivity solutions with its line of 10BASE-T1S products, providing the industry with turnkey solutions that meet customers’ requirements,” said Matthias Kaestner, corporate VP of Microchip’s automotive business. “This new technology will connect sensors and actuators in the physical world all the way 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 allows for synchronized timing across far-reaching Ethernet networks. This time synchronization is critical for many automotive applications such as Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS).

The automotive-qualified LAN8650/1 are compliant with the AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualification standard for enhanced robustness in harsh environments, including extended operational temperature range from −40º to 125º C. In addition, the LAN8650/1 are functional safety ready and designed for use in ISO 26262 applications.

Ethernet solutions continue to gain momentum in the automotive industry because of the well-established security protocols for keeping network systems secure. These systems can be extended to the edges of the network without needing extensive changes or new development.