January 6, 2016

Chipset enables automotive Ethernet-AVB for next-generation IVI and telematics

Sample shipments of the TC9560XBG Ethernet bridge solution and TC9560AXBG, with CAN-FD features, start today, with volume production slated for October 2016.

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 contributes to simplified wiring, cost savings, reduced harness weight and improved mileage. Toshiba’s new automotive-grade Ethernet solution also supports Ethernet-AVB, which is an important factor for multimedia applications. In addition, the device will be AEC-Q100^[1] qualified to ensure performance in rigorous automotive environments.

Strategy Analytics forecasts that demand for automotive Ethernet will exceed 120 million nodes by 2020^[2], 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.

Connected to an application processor or other system-on-chip (SoC) host, the TC9560XBG allows the host device to deliver audio, video, and data information through the 10/100/1000 Ethernet network in an automotive environment. Connection to the host is achieved via PCI Express^® (PCIe^®), HSIC or Time Division Multiplex (TDM)/I²S for audio traffic. The IC’s RGMII/RMII^[3] interface connects to the Ethernet switch or PHY device, and both AVB and legacy traffic are supported. An on-chip ARM^® Cortex^®-M3 processor can perform system control and management.

The new chipset will be showcased at the 2016 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), to be held from January 6 to January 9 in Las Vegas, U.S.A.