Ethernet bridge solution for automotive applications

Toshiba Electronics Europe has introduced a new automotive-grade Ethernet bridge solution for in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) and other automotive applications. The TC9560XBG supports standards such as IEEE 802.1AS and IEEE 802.1Qav, generally referred to as Ethernet-AVB. The Ethernet-AVB standard enables stable, reliable multimedia transmissions, making it suitable for IVI and telematics. The device has been developed under the ISO/TS 16949 and APQP automotive design quality system and is being AEC-Q100 qualified to guarantee quality and performance in rigorous automotive environments. The TC9560XBG is housed in a 10mm x 10mm LFBGA package. When connected to an application processor or other system-on-chip (SoC) host, the TC9560XBG allows the host device to deliver audio, video, and other data through the 10/100/1000 Ethernet network in an automotive environment. Connection to the host is via PCI Express (PCIe), HSIC or Time Division Multiplex (TDM)/I2S for audio traffic. The chipset’s RGMII/RMII/MII interface connects to the Ethernet switch or PHY device, and both AVB and legacy traffic are supported. An on-chip ARM Cortex-M3 processor performs system control and management. Automotive electronics are becoming more complex with the addition of advanced sensors, high-resolution displays, on-vehicle cameras, automated driver assistance systems (ADAS) and their data transmission and controls. Connecting these devices with an industry-standard Ethernet protocol allows for simplified wiring, cost savings, reduced harness weight and improved mileage. Strategy Analytics forecasts that demand for automotive Ethernet will exceed 120 million nodes by 2020, driven by increased in- and on-vehicle electronic content, including cameras, sensors, displays, safety systems and convenience solutions. In particular, for emerging autonomous vehicle systems, a reliable, high-speed communications network is an essential requirement. In addition to the functionality offered by the TC9560XBG Ethernet bridge solution, the TC9560AXBG also provides automotive OEMs with access to CAN-FD functionality, says the company.