NXP launches secure automotive Ethernet switch

NXP Semiconductors N.V., the world’s largest supplier of automotive semiconductors, recently announced a multi-gigabit Ethernet switch to help automakers deliver the high-speed networks required for connected vehicles.

The NXP SJA1110 is the first automotive Ethernet switch with safety capabilities built in — offering integrated 100BASE-T1 PHYs, hardware-assisted security, and multi-gigabit interfaces.

Optimized for integration with NXP’s S32G vehicle network processor, the SJA1110 switch is also part of an overall networking solution that includes the VR5510 power management IC. Together, this solution addresses the biggest challenges facing vehicle networking including scalability, safety, security, and high-speed traffic engineering.

New Service-Oriented Gateways and domain controllers are required to accommodate connected services, such as Over-The-Air updates and emerging data-driven applications. At the same time, support is required for the underlying Ethernet-based web sensors, actuators and processing unit. These networks must be scalable and move data quickly and securely without posing dangers to the car, the passengers, or their personal data.

Additionally, these car networks must deliver the functional safety needed to ensure that if vehicles fail, they do it safely.

The SJA1110 Ethernet switch helps carmakers obtain the scalability, security and performance with the right mix of hardware features and a balanced number of ports for high and low-port-count ECUs. The SJA1110 is aligned to the latest TSN standards and offers integrated 100BASE-T1 PHYs, hardware-assisted security and safety capabilities along with multi-gigabit interfaces.

Features
● Scalability: This Ethernet switch can be availed in four SW (software) and HW (Hardware) compatible versions along with an enriched set of NXP’s open integrated controller, original SW, as well as multiple BOM optimization options. The switch also provides a reliable base for most scalable ECU designs for complicated gateways, infotainment units, and ADAS systems.

● Security: The SJA1110 carries NXP’s forte in e-passports and bank cards along with with denial-of-service prevention, hardware-assisted secure boot, and distributed intrusion-detection functionalities. It is capable of processing every single Ethernet frame that reaches the ECU by verifying it against HW-based security standards that then collects stats and triggers escalations if anything fails to conforms with the given specification. Such processes form the base for formation of the best firewall and intrusion detection systems.

● Safety: The SJA1110 allows its users to meet all ASIL requirements and enrich all safety functionalities by using failure-detection mechanisms.