Microchip unveils new VSC8574RT PHY devices

     The space industry is shifting its connectivity interfaces from traditional private networks to Ethernet solutions to provide more flexibility and simplify the design process. In an effort to simplify Ethernet deployments for aerospace and defense customers, Microchip Technology announced the launch of an all-new VSC8574RT PHY, further expanding its radiation-resistant (RT) Ethernet PHY product lineup. The VSC8574RT PHY supports Serial Gigabit Media Independent Interface (SGMII) and four-channel Serial Gigabit Media Independent Interface (QSGMII), which reduces the total number of signal pins in your design and reduces the space required by host devices.

     The operating environment of aerospace applications requires enhanced radiation technology to withstand extreme temperatures and electromagnetic events. These events can degrade performance and disrupt operations of space-based systems. The VSC8574RT Ethernet PHY is based on Microchip's extensive Commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) technology devices, allowing customers to develop applications using COTS versions and replace them with RT devices in the final process.

     Compatible with both copper and fiber interfaces, the VSC8574RT PHY offers a wide range of possible new application use cases. Although copper   cables are still the dominant design, fiber optic interfaces are the inevitable trend for future aerospace applications as the industry demands data rates above 1 gigabit.

     The VSC8574RT PHY comes with a four-channel port that supports 10, 100, and 1000BASE-T Ethernet connections for optimal speed and coverage based on device requirements. The highly reliable VSC8574RT PHY features a wealth of advanced features such as Synchronous Ethernet (SyncE) and IEEE® 1588v2 Precise Time Protocol (PTP) to support network timing and synchronization for highly accurate timing applications.

     "The VSC8574RT PHY device features advanced timing capabilities to provide customers with connectivity solutions for deterministic real-time applications," said Bob Vampola, Microchip's vice president of Aerospace and Defense business. "Ethernet solutions are in great demand for aerospace applications, and our COTS-to-RT devices with multi-port, SGMII and fiber interfaces provide even more functionality."

     Specifications for the VSC8574RT include single-event latched immunity above 78 MeV.cm²/mg and total ionization dose testing up to 100 krad. This versatile solution can meet a wide range of applications from low Earth orbit (LEO) to deep space.