Microchip Technology Launched New Ethernet Connectivity Devices
The latest transceivers and endpoints aim to simplify zonal vehicle and industrial network architectures.
Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Semiconductors
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Microchip Technology has released two Ethernet transceivers, the LAN8679 and LAN8680, alongside the LAN8660X/1X/2X family of endpoints. These devices are currently available in limited sampling for high-reliability sectors.
Why it matters
The components support multidrop topologies, which help reduce total wiring weight and system costs in complex environments like robotics and vehicle zonal architectures. This development allows for more efficient network scaling in aerospace and industrial automation settings.
The LAN8679 utilizes an OA3P interface in a compact 3x3 mm VDFN package, while the LAN8660X integrates a Physical Medium Dependent (PMD) transceiver into a single-chip device. All units are rated for extreme thermal environments ranging from -40° C to 125° C.
The players
Microchip Technology
A developer of microcontroller, mixed-signal, analog, and Flash-IP integrated circuits for the automotive, industrial, and aerospace markets.
The details
The LAN8660X/1X/2X endpoint family integrates a PMD transceiver—the component that handles physical signaling—into a single-chip RCP device to streamline board design. These endpoints leverage network management software to handle configuration and diagnostic tasks while supporting time synchronization over gPTP (generalized Precision Time Protocol). By utilizing a multidrop topology, these chips allow multiple nodes to communicate over a single line, reducing the cabling density required in automotive and industrial systems.
Timeline
November 2025: Initial LAN866x endpoints entered the market.
October 4, 2026: The current generation of transceivers and endpoints became available for limited sampling.
The Tech Race
This release follows the industry-wide transition toward zonal vehicle architectures that replace legacy bus systems with Ethernet-based backbones. The expansion of the LAN86xx line provides a specialized hardware path for maintaining this transition relative to the 10BASE-T1S Ethernet standard.
System architects and engineers can currently access these devices via limited sampling for testing in industrial or automotive prototypes. Widespread integration into production vehicles and robotics will follow as the devices move from sampling to mass production.
The takeaway
The move toward multidrop topologies signals a continued focus on reducing physical harness weight in modern electronic systems. Engineers should monitor the upcoming transition from limited sampling to general availability to begin integration into broader product design cycles.
Further reading
For more on the hardware driving network connectivity, see our guide on Semiconductors.
Source note: This article includes information reported by CHARGED Electric Vehicles Magazine.
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