It has IEEE 10BASE-T1S single-pair Ethernet technology standard for connecting devices in industrial networks
Smart manufacturing is driving efficiencies in automation as digital networks increasingly connect machines, production line equipment and robotics. For this, interoperability, high-speed data transmission and security of operation technology (OT) and information technology (IT) networks are critical to the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT).
Thus simplifying architectures and reducing risk for designers is the new LAN867x family of 10BASE-T1S PHYs from Microchip Technology that expands Ethernet connectivity to the very edges of industrial networks.
The LAN867x Ethernet Physical Layer (PHY) transceivers are high-performance, small-footprint devices enabling connections to standard system devices including sensors and actuators that previously required their communication systems. The LAN867x devices also eliminate the need for gateways that in the past were needed to interconnect incompatible communication systems. The single pair of wires reduces cost, while the multidrop bus architecture reduces the need for expensive switches and enhances scalability. Several nodes can operate on the same bus line with high data throughput.
The LAN8670, LAN8671 and LAN8672 Ethernet PHYs are designed and validated to the new 10BASE-T1S standard for single-pair Ethernet released by IEEE. 10BASE-T1S addresses the challenges of creating all-Ethernet architectures for industrial applications such as process controls, building automation and consolidation of systems with multiple interconnection technologies. The configuration enables a multidrop (bus line) topology, fewer cables, development on printed circuit boards, with up to at least eight nodes and up to at least a 25-meter range.
All-Ethernet infrastructures simplify architectures by using well-known communication and security mechanisms, reducing cost and risk when designing new systems. Additional advantages of Ethernet include the use of the same protocol independent from physical layer speed and operation within established security infrastructures and ecosystems.
“Microchip’s 10Base-T1S technology provides an advantage for our endpoint-to-cloud integration, connecting products, controls, software and services in a simpler and more cost-effective way,” said Julien Michel, Connected Systems project leader at Schneider Electric.
“For industrial system architects and designers, interconnection of many different communication devices and technologies often is difficult and error-prone,” said Matthias Kaestner, vice president, Automotive. “Using 10BASE-T1S Ethernet simplifies these interconnections, enhancing interoperability and speed, which is critical in the industrial environment.”
Reference designs, software drivers, system simulator and evaluation boards are available to enable easy design-in of the LAN8670, LAN8671 and LAN8672 Ethernet PHYs. The LAN8670, LAN8671 and LAN8672 devices are available from Microchip in 32-pin, 24-pin and 36-pin Very thin profile Quad Flat Non-Leaded (VQFN) packages.
