Microchip Technology Released New Ethernet Transceivers
The company introduced a new family of endpoints and transceivers to support zonal architectures.
Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Semiconductors
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Microchip Technology has released the LAN8679 and LAN8680 Ethernet transceivers alongside the LAN8660X/1X/2X family of endpoints. These devices are designed to improve efficiency in industrial and automotive systems through multidrop topology.
Why it matters
The new components utilize multidrop topology to reduce wiring weight and overall system costs. They are specifically intended for integration into zonal vehicle architectures, robotics, and aerospace applications.
The LAN8679 and LAN8680 utilize compact 3x3 mm and 3x4.5 mm VDFN packages, respectively, while the LAN8660X operates in a 5x5 mm TQFN package. All devices function within a wide -40° C to 125° C temperature range.
The players
Microchip Technology
Microchip Technology is a leading provider of smart, connected, and secure embedded control solutions.
The details
The LAN8660X/1X/2X family integrates a PMD transceiver into a single-chip device, while the LAN8680 includes built-in power management and watchdog supervision. These endpoints support time synchronization over gPTP and provide network management tools for diagnostics.
Timeline
November 2025: Initial LAN866x endpoints were released.
October 4, 2026: New devices were announced and made available in limited sampling.
The Tech Race
The transition to zonal vehicle architectures is reshaping how data moves within modern transport and industrial machines. By moving away from complex legacy wiring, Microchip Technology is positioning its hardware to compete in the growing market for high-efficiency, integrated network nodes.
These components provide developers with the capability to create more streamlined industrial and automotive systems. Users benefit from reduced system costs and enhanced diagnostic features as these chips are incorporated into new hardware designs.
The takeaway
The move toward multidrop network topologies signifies a long-term shift toward reducing hardware overhead in complex automated systems. Designers can utilize these specific components to balance high-temperature durability with strict space constraints in modern engineering.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest innovations in the industry in our Semiconductors section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by CHARGED Electric Vehicles Magazine.
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