Microchip Technology Inc. (Nasdaq: MCHP) has introduced a new generation of Optical Ethernet PHY transceivers that combine up to 25 Gbps data rates with Precision Time Protocol (PTP) and MACsec encryption, designed to meet the rising demand for high-speed, long-distance, and secure networking in industrial and enterprise environments.
As industries embrace automation, smart infrastructure, and remote operations, the need for robust, scalable, and low-latency communication has grown sharply. Microchip’s latest transceivers aim to fill this gap by delivering secure and deterministic Ethernet connectivity over optical fiber, enabling network links that stretch up to 10 kilometers.
“Design engineers are looking for solutions that simplify complex networking systems,” said Charlie Forni, Corporate Vice President of Microchip’s Networking and Connectivity Solutions business. “Adding PTP or MACsec could mean a complete overhaul of an existing design. Our solution helps preserve our customers’ core-processing investment. By integrating these capabilities directly into our transceivers, we enable bolt-on functionality for smarter, more secure, and scalable networks.”
The new devices are available in 10 Gbps (LAN826x) and 25 Gbps (LAN802x/LAN804x) variants, supporting both dual-port and quad-port configurations. These transceivers deliver sub-nanosecond (<1ns) synchronization accuracy through IEEE 1588 PTP, ensuring timing precision critical for industrial automation, telecommunications, and robotics.
In addition to precision timing, the transceivers integrate hardware-level MACsec (IEEE 802.1AE) encryption to safeguard data across Ethernet links. This security feature protects against network-level threats such as man-in-the-middle attacks, denial-of-service, eavesdropping, and spoofing, reinforcing network integrity and confidentiality.
The LAN826x series supports up to 10 Gbps, while the LAN802x and LAN804x families extend performance to 25 Gbps. Customers can choose configurations featuring PTP, MACsec, or both, such as the LAN8044-V/3HW, which offers quad-port, 25 Gbps capability with integrated PTP and MACsec.
Engineered for scalability, the portfolio supports Ethernet speeds ranging from 1 Gbps to 25 Gbps, making it suitable for a wide array of applications — from data centers and campus networks to warehouse automation and edge computing. Designers can select between optical fiber or Direct Attach Copper (DAC) media based on their deployment needs.
Microchip’s Ethernet solutions portfolio extends beyond transceivers to include high port-count switches and Single Pair Ethernet devices, addressing the needs of industrial, automotive, and embedded sectors. The company’s focus on security, precision timing, and temperature resilience enables reliable operation in demanding environments.
For developers, the transceivers are supported by the LAN8044 Evaluation Kit (EA00J09A), which includes the LAN8044 EDSX Daughter Card (EV57U68A) and the EVB-VSC7558TSN EDSX (UNG8415), designed to streamline system design and testing.
