This reference design demonstrates key functions of next-generation zone control modules including power distribution, load actuation and in-vehicle networking. The design highlights functional safety-compliant PMIC and microcontroller (MCU) design, redundant power supply management with ideal diode controllers, and smart eFuses for safe power distribution. The design also features various options for load actuation expected in zone control modules, such as high-side drivers, motor drivers, configurable drivers, and a Class-D audio amplifier. The zone reference design showcases a variety of communication protocols, such as Ethernet, CAN and LIN and enables emerging trends in vehicle networking technology such as Ethernet AVB, 10BASE-T1S and CAN FD Light.
Features
- MCU with integrated Ethernet switch to optimize Ethernet ring topologies by implementing the following hardware protocols: 802.1Qav, 802.1Qbv, 802.1cb (partial), 1588 TE and 802.1Q ALE
- AVB Ethernet audio support with Ethernet PHY hardware time stamping and integrated media clock adjustment
- ASIL D-rated MCU and PMIC with system Limp Home Mode (LHM) capability
- Low-power mode with wake from Ethernet, CAN, LIN, smart eFuses, and MSDI off-board switch inputs
- Optimized microcontroller GPIO:
- SPI daisy chain of smart eFuses and motor drivers
- SPI and I2C IO expanders