Bus transceiver for FlexRay automotive networking

July 31, 2012 // Christoph Hammerschmidt

ON Semiconductor has expanded its portfolio of automotive networking products with the introduction of a bus transceiver IC that is compliant with the most recent adaption to the FlexRay communications protocol.

The NCV7381 is a highly robust, single-channel device capable of data transfer speeds up to 10 megabits per second (Mbits/s). Conforming fully with FlexRay Electrical Physical Layer Specification Rev. 3.0.1, the new device offers a differential transmit and receive capability between the wired FlexRay communication medium and the protocol controller/host. 

“FlexRay is a rapidly emerging standard for in-vehicle networking, superseding current controller area network (CAN) and local interconnect network (LIN) based systems, with an order of magnitude increase in data transfer speeds as well as greater reliability,” said Jim Alvernaz, director of the automotive product division at ON Semiconductor. “It enables more advanced safety, powertrain and comfort mechanisms to be implemented into the next generation of automobiles. By offering a line driver solution that can act as a robust drop-in replacement for existing FlexRay transceivers, ON Semiconductor can enable the quick and easy upgrade of electronic control units to support the latest version of this standard.”  

The NCV7381's mode control functionality is optimised for nodes permanently connected to car batteries. The device offers low power operation and a low power mode receiver that allows remote wake-up detection. 

Capable of running from a 5.5 volt (V) to 50 V battery supply, the NCV7381 can be integrated into both 12 V and 24 V automotive power systems. It has strong electromagnetic susceptibility (EMS) performance across its full frequency range. Interference with neighbouring circuits is reduced due to its low electromagnetic emission on the bus lines. The device also has a high degree of electro-static discharge protection and is able to cope with in excess of 10 kilovolt (kV) ESD pulses. The NCV7381 is AEC-qualified and has an operational temperature range of -40 °C to +125 °C. 

The NCV7381 is supplied in a Pb-free, RoHS-compliant SSOP-16 package and priced at  $1.60 for 2000 unit quantities. 

For more information visit http://www.onsemi.com/

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