Switch ICs support centralised, distributed networks

Micrel Inc. has introduced the KSZ84xx family of IEEE 1588v2-enabled Ethernet devices for Industrial Ethernet and Power Substation Automation applications. The solution employs Micrel's EtherSynch technology, which integrates IEEE 1588v2 distributed synchronization, Ethernet switching, and Precision GPIO in an energy efficient, compact package. Volume production of the ICs are expected to take place in the first quarter of 2012.

The KSZ84xx platform is a compact, highly integrated and energy efficient IEEE 1588v2 10/100 switch, supporting both centralised and distributed network topologies. A full complement of Precise Timing Protocol timing modes are provided, including the Transparent Clock (TC) introduced in IEEE 1588v2, along with a range of host interfaces capable of interfacing to a wide range of CPUs.

The KSZ84xx switches are applicable for distributed network topologies preferred for Industrial Ethernet systems. The ICs feature a hardware-oriented architecture that reduces the synchronization and communications processing demands on the Host CPU. Such features as Source Addressing, One-Step TC corrections, and Bypass mode facilitate both Ring and Linear topologies. By integrating the IEEE 1588 PTPv2 time stamping as close to the physical layer as possible, sub-100ns synchronization performance is achieved.

The KSZ84xx product family consists of: 1) KSZ8463: IEEE 1588v2, 3-port switch with MII/RMII interface; 2) KSX8462: IEEE 1588v2, 3-port switch with generic host interface; and 3) KSX8441: IEEE 1588v2, Controller with generic host interface.

Micrel also intends to offer a pre-qualified Precise Timing Protocol software stack integrated with the driver and optimized to exploit the KSZ84xx architecture. Source code is available under license.

The KSZ84xx reduces operational power consumption, which is less than 300mW. Power management features complement the inherently low-power Physical Layer design, including Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE-IEEE 802.3az), Wake on LAN (WoL), Energy Detect Power Down (EDPD), and software power down. Standby power savings of over 95 percent are achievable.