As automotive and industrial system designers increasingly move toward Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) and fully Ethernet-based architectures for Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs) and advanced industrial networks, the need for secure, scalable, and high-performance connectivity continues to rise. Microchip Technology has introduced the LAN878x and LAN888x families of Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) PHY transceivers, supporting 100BASE-T1, 1000BASE-T1, and dual-speed 100/1000BASE-T1 variants. These devices are built to provide robust and scalable Ethernet connectivity for automotive systems and other mission-critical applications.
The LAN878x and LAN888x PHYs feature integrated hardware-based MACsec security compliant with IEEE 802.1AE-2018, enabling frame-level data protection, including confidentiality, integrity, and replay protection, while avoiding added latency or software overhead. They also include native Time Sensitive Networking (TSN) capabilities, supporting deterministic, low-latency communication essential for applications such as ADAS, zonal gateways, and safety-critical control systems.
The LAN878x and LAN888x families go beyond security and performance by delivering enhanced functional safety engineered for ISO 26262 ASIL‑B systems. Advanced on‑chip diagnostics and link monitoring increase visibility, accelerate fault detection and support stronger system‑level safety mechanisms than traditional SPE PHY solutions.
To simplify platform scalability and design reuse, the LAN878x and LAN888x families offer pin‑compatible SKUs across 100BASE‑T1 and 1000BASE‑T1 variants, as well as SGMII and RGMII host interfaces. This compatibility allows designers to reuse existing hardware designs while scaling network bandwidth to meet evolving performance requirements.
“OEMs need a clear and efficient path to scale Ethernet performance as vehicle networks evolve,” said Charlie Forni, corporate vice president of Microchip’s networking and connectivity business unit. “The LAN878x and LAN888x families allow teams to reuse designs while supporting higher data rates and stronger security. By integrating MACsec directly in the PHY, we help designers enhance network protection without added system complexities.”
The LAN878x family includes LAN8781, LAN8781M, LAN8782 and LAN8782M, while the LAN888x family includes LAN8881, LAN8881M, LAN8882, LAN8882M, LAN8883, LAN8883M, LAN8884 and LAN8884M. Devices with the “M” suffix support MACsec security. All devices are designed for high reliability, with a maximum junction temperature of 150°C, supporting Automotive Grade 1 operating conditions (-40°C to +125°C).
Beyond automotive, the LAN878x and LAN888x families also support a wide range of industrial and mission-critical applications, including industrial automation, robotics, avionics and other systems that require deterministic Ethernet communication.
Development Tools
The LAN878x and LAN888x PHY transceivers are supported by comprehensive hardware evaluation platforms; SGMII, USB and PCIe plug-in boards and Linux software drivers.
Pricing and Availability
The LAN878x and LAN888x families are available in limited sampling.
