Microchip Launches New 10BASE-T1S Ethernet Components
The new transceivers and endpoint devices aim to simplify zonal networking in automotive and industrial systems.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Semiconductors
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Microchip has introduced two new 10BASE-T1S transceivers and five integrated endpoint devices designed for efficient data communication. These components support a multidrop topology intended to reduce cabling and Ethernet overhead in specialized architectures.
Why it matters
By integrating protocol stacks and utilizing a multidrop design, these chips lower the hardware requirements for connecting devices in zonal networks. This approach streamlines deployment for automotive and industrial designers who manage complex, power-constrained systems.
The new 10BASE-T1S chips operate at 10 Mbps and support a multidrop topology that typically allows eight devices to share a single bus. These units are built to withstand industrial environments with an operating temperature range of -40°C to +125°C.
The players
Microchip
Microchip is a technology company that develops microcontrollers, mixed-signal, analog, and Flash-IP integrated circuits for various industrial and automotive sectors.
The details
The LAN8679 and LAN8680 transceivers utilize a 3-pin interface to connect to host MCUs, while the LAN8660X, LAN8661X, and LAN8662X family features an integrated protocol stack. This design allows for a softwareless connection solution that significantly reduces the complexity of data transmission in lower-powered systems.
Timeline
Microchip released the new Ethernet chips for sample purchase in October 2026.
The Tech Race
This release marks a broader industry push to transition vehicle and factory networking from older communication protocols to modern Ethernet-based zonal architectures. By standardizing these connections, manufacturers are working to reduce weight and wiring complexity while maintaining functional safety requirements.
For automotive and industrial designers, these components offer a more efficient way to manage network traffic without the need for extensive cabling or complex software stacks. These advancements ultimately help developers accelerate the integration of high-bandwidth sensors and safety-critical hardware.
The takeaway
The move toward softwareless, integrated Ethernet endpoints indicates a shift toward simpler network designs in highly regulated environments. Developers can now utilize these samples to test how multidrop topologies reduce total system footprint and simplify future hardware scaling.
Further reading
For more information on the latest chip innovations, explore the Semiconductors section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by All About Circuits.
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