In a groundbreaking move that promises to revolutionize networking capabilities, Microchip Technology has announced the launch of its latest LAN969x Ethernet switches. Boasting cutting-edge features such as Time Sensitive Networking (TSN), scalable bandwidths ranging from 46 Gbps to an impressive 102 Gbps, and a formidable 1 GHz single-core Arm Cortex-A53 CPU, this next-generation offering is set to redefine the landscape of Ethernet switches.
Designed to cater to a diverse array of applications, the LAN969x Ethernet switches are equipped to deliver unparalleled redundancy through the incorporation of High-availability Seamless Redundancy (HSR) and Parallel Redundancy Protocol (PRP). These hardware protocols are engineered to ensure zero-loss redundancy within Ethernet networks, providing a robust and reliable foundation for critical operations. Additionally, the switches support multiple HSR and PRP Redundancy Box (RedBox) instances, operating seamlessly at Ethernet port speeds ranging from 10 Mbps to 10 Gbps.
One of the standout features of the LAN969x switches is their ability to implement a QuadBox, a function that facilitates the seamless connection of two HSR networks. This innovative capability is particularly valuable in scenarios where unwavering reliability and zero downtime are imperative. Unlike alternative solutions, the implementation of a QuadBox via LAN969x eliminates the need for multiple disparate components, streamlining design complexity and system costs.
Moreover, the LAN969x family of Ethernet switches offers extensive configurability, with options for up to 30 ports. These ports support a variety of interfaces, including RGMII, SGMII, QSGMII, USGMII, and USXGMII. Targeting secure and safety-critical applications that demand high-port-count 10M/100M/1G/2.5G/10G switching links, the LAN969x switches are poised to meet the most demanding networking requirements.
In addition to their remarkable performance capabilities, the LAN969x switches are equipped with a range of security add-ons, including secure boot and secure firmware execution based on the customer’s root-of-trust manufacturing process. Security is further bolstered through Ternary Content Addressable Memory (TCAM)-based frame processing, utilizing a Versatile Content Aware Processor (VCAP), Arm Trusted Firmware methodology for fast secure boot, crypto libraries, and hardware security accelerators for boot and code encryption, along with one-time programmable immutable key storage.
The introduction of the LAN969x family of mid-range Ethernet switches complements Microchip’s existing portfolio of TSN switches. While the SparX-5i family supports up to 64 ports and 200 Gbps of switching bandwidth, the LAN9662 and LAN9668 cater to applications requiring 4 to 8 ports and 4 to 11 Gbps of switch bandwidth.
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To support the LAN969x family of Ethernet switches, Microchip offers the EV23X71A Evaluation Board, along with the IStaX VSC6817SDK Linux Application Software Package, which is designed to uphold TSN standards and HSR/PRP redundancy.
The LAN9694, LAN9696, and LAN9698 are now available for purchase, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of networking technology.
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