As the automotive industry shifts toward zonal architectures for in-vehicle networking, engineers are challenged with integrating an ever-expanding array of sensors and actuators. Conventional designs that depend on individual microcontrollers and custom software at each network node lead to increased system complexity, higher costs, and longer development timelines. Addressing these challenges, Microchip Technology has introduced the LAN866x family of 10BASE-T1S endpoint devices with Remote Control Protocol (RCP) bringing Ethernet connectivity to the outermost edges of in-vehicle networks and advancing the realization of Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs).
The LAN866x endpoints are purpose-built to simplify network integration by directly bridging Ethernet packets to local digital interfaces. Unlike traditional designs, these endpoints operate without the need for dedicated software, eliminating node-specific programming and minimizing silicon usage as well as physical footprint. Supporting standards-based Remote Control Protocol (RCP), they enable centralized management of edge nodes for seamless data streaming and device control. Leveraging a 10BASE-T1S multidrop topology, the solution promotes an all-Ethernet zonal architecture, significantly reducing cabling complexity, software overhead, and overall system cost.
By eliminating the need for software development at each node, the LAN866x endpoints help reduce hardware and engineering costs, accelerate system deployment, and simplify overall architecture. These endpoints are ideally suited for critical automotive functions such as interior and exterior lighting, audio systems, and various control applications. In such use cases, they enable direct Ethernet-to-digital bridging seamlessly connecting Ethernet data to local interfaces that drive LED lighting, manage audio transmission between microphones and speakers, and control sensors and actuators across the network.
With the introduction of these RCP endpoint devices, Microchip’s Single Pair Ethernet portfolio enables designers to achieve a truly unified all-Ethernet architecture for Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs),” said Charlie Forni, Corporate Vice President of Microchip’s Networking and Communications Business Unit. “Our commitment lies in delivering cutting-edge solutions backed by global technical expertise, extensive documentation, and robust development tools all aimed at simplifying design complexity and accelerating our customers’ time to market.
Microchip’s Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) portfolio offers a comprehensive range of transceivers, bridges, switches, and development tools that deliver reliable, high-speed data communication over a single twisted-pair cable. Supporting 10BASE-T1S, 100BASE-T1, 1000BASE-T1, and higher-speed standards, these solutions simplify wiring, lower system costs, and streamline Ethernet connectivity across automotive, industrial, and building automation applications. Designed for interoperability and scalability, Microchip’s SPE solutions empower designers to build flexible, future-ready network architectures. For more information, visit Microchip’s SPE solutions page.
