Microchip Announces New Ethernet PHYs Supporting Multidrop Bus Architectures to Enhance Scalability and Functionality of Industrial Networks

     Smart manufacturing is increasing automation efficiency as digital networks increasingly connect machines, production line equipment and robots. Operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) networks critical to the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) rely on Ethernet for interoperability, faster data transfer, and security. Microchip Technology Inc has introduced a new solution, the LAN867x family of 10BASE-T1S PHYs, that extends Ethernet connectivity to the very edge of industrial networks, simplifying architecture and reducing risk for designers.

     Microchip's new LAN867x Ethernet physical layer (PHY) transceivers are high-performance, small-footprint devices that enable connectivity to standard system devices, including sensors and actuators, that previously required their own communication systems.

     With LAN867x devices, full Ethernet infrastructure in OT and IT systems can be extended to the edge of the network. Microchip LAN867x devices eliminate the need for gateways, which in the past were required to interconnect incompatible communication systems. A single pair of wires reduces cost, while a multi-drop bus structure reduces the need for expensive switches and increases scalability. Multiple nodes can operate on the same bus line with high data throughput.

     Microchip's LAN8670, LAN8671 and LAN8672 Ethernet PHYs are the industry's first products designed and validated to the latest 10BASE-T1S single-pair Ethernet standard published by IEEE. 10BASE-T1S addresses the challenges of creating an all-Ethernet architecture for industrial applications such as process control, building automation, and system integration using multiple interconnect technologies. This configuration implements a multi-drop (bus line) topology, reduces cables, enables development on a printed circuit board, has at least 8 nodes, and supports a range of not less than 25 meters.

     An all-Ethernet infrastructure simplifies the architecture by using common communication and security mechanisms, reducing the cost and risk when designing new systems. Other advantages of Ethernet include using the same protocol independent of physical layer speed and operating within an established security infrastructure and ecosystem.

     "Microchip's 10Base-T1S technology provides advantages for our end-to-cloud integration, connecting products, control systems, software and services in a simpler and more cost-effective way," said Julien Michel, Schneider Electric Connected Systems Program Leader. It will help make the best use of our energy and resources for progress and sustainable development for all parties involved.”

     "For industrial system architects and designers, interconnecting many different communication devices and technologies is often difficult and error-prone," said Matthias Kaestner, vice president of Microchip's Automotive Products Group. "Using 10BASE-T1S Ethernet simplifies these interconnections. connectivity, increasing interoperability and speed, which are critical in industrial environments.”

     The LAN867x expands Microchip's product lineup and total system solutions for industrial applications, including microcontrollers (MCUs), microprocessors (MPUs) and switches with Ethernet interfaces, as well as development tools, evaluation boards and support.