MaxLinear’s USB Ethernet bridges provide a compact, high-performance solution for integrating Ethernet connectivity into systems with a USB port, targeting embedded and industrial applications. Designed for space-constrained environments, these bridges offer robust functionality and seamless integration to simplify development and accelerate time to market.
The XR22800 and XR22801 models, housed in a 5mm × 5mm QFN package, integrate an I2C master and multiple general-purpose inputs/outputs (GPIOs). The XR22804, in an 8mm × 8mm footprint, adds four universal asynchronous receivers/transmitters (UARTs) and 32 GPIOs alongside USB-to-Ethernet bridging. These devices provide ±15kV human body model (HBM) ESD protection, ensuring reliability in consumer and industrial settings.
Compatible with standard drivers for Windows, Linux, Android, and macOS, the bridges support plug-and-play functionality. Custom Windows drivers, certified to Microsoft WHQL/HCK standards, are available for non-standard applications. Features include configurable UARTs with baud rates above 300bps, support for 9-bit and multidrop modes, and RS-485 half-duplex control with automatic direction control. GPIOs are customizable for application-specific functions.
Technical specifications include a USB 2.0 interface, 10/100Mbps Fast Ethernet support, and low-power operation suitable for battery-powered systems. The bridges achieve up to 940Mbps throughput in Fast Ethernet mode, low-latency performance for real-time applications, and near-instantaneous driver loading.
Applications span industrial automation, legacy system upgrades, IoT gateways, embedded systems, and networking equipment. Use cases include enabling Ethernet in programmable logic controllers, human-machine interfaces, single-board computers, point-of-sale systems, docking stations, USB Ethernet dongles, and serial port expanders.
MaxLinear’s USB Ethernet bridges deliver compact, reliable, and flexible connectivity solutions for modern industrial and embedded systems, addressing diverse networking needs with efficient design and robust performance.
