NXP is the first automotive semiconductor supplier to adopt Broadcom's Ethernet technology for in-vehicle networking. The high bandwidth (100Mbit/s), low cost network complements existing in-vehicle technologies, such as CAN, LIN, LVDS and FlexRay. The technology is claimed to have "significant" cost advantages over other high-bandwidth automotive networking technologies, as it operates over single UTP (unshielded twisted pair) cabling which is less expensive and lower in weight than shielded cabling. The technology is used by CAN- and LIN-based control systems, enabling it to run over existing in-vehicle networks. Camera-based security is driving demand for high bandwidth. By networking a series of cameras mounted on the outside of the vehicle, the driver can get a 360° view of the outside of the car, displayed on the dashboard. The first device samples will be available in 2013.
