Microchip introduces the industry's first in-car USB 3.1 SmartHub with Type-C support

     Microchip introduces the first generation of USB 3.1 SmartHub integrated chips compliant with automotive standards. Compared to existing USB 2.0 solutions, the new generation of USB 3.1 chips can increase data transfer rates by 10 times and reduce indexing time, thereby improving the automotive user experience. To support the USB Type-C interface that is becoming increasingly popular in the smartphone market, as well as a wide variety of connections in cars, the new USB7002 SmartHub IC provides an interface for USB Type-C connectors.

     As automakers continue to add more features to cars and integrate them with mobile applications, USB needs to be powerful and faster for reliable data transfer. Although vehicles handle multiple functions at once, from transmitting map data to playing music to interacting with user interfaces, consumers still expect infotainment systems to respond instantly. USB 3.1's SuperSpeed data transfer rate of 5 Gigabits per second ensures higher bandwidth and optimal performance for gigabit rate applications, enabling faster data streaming, data downloads, and in-car communications. The USB7002 can also reduce the download time of oversized videos, making it ideal for vehicles with 4K dashcams.

     Driven by consumer demand for fast charging of mobile devices, USB Type-C is becoming more widely used in the smartphone industry. The USB7002 combines the technical benefits of USB 3.1 with the growing popularity of USB Type-C, enabling direct USB Type-C connectivity via a native configuration channel (CC) pin interface and an integrated 2:1 multiplexer to support the reversible connectivity capabilities of USB Type-C connectors.

     Charles Forni, general manager of Microchip's USB and Networking business unit, said: "Microchip continues to invest in cutting-edge USB technology for the automotive industry, bringing new products to market. From offering faster mobile device charging solutions for the car's center console and rear seat, to introducing the industry's first USB Type-C compatible in-car USB 3.1 solution, we are constantly working to introduce new solutions that enhance the in-car experience."

     All current mobile devices are equipped with driver assistance applications, for which SmartHub ics incorporate Microchip's patented FlexConnect technology, which has the unique ability to dynamically switch between USB hosts and USB devices. In addition, the SmartHub IC features patented multi-host endpoint reflector technology that mirrors USB data between two USB hosts. These basic capabilities enable the phone's graphical user interface to be displayed on the in-car screen and integrated with voice commands in the car while charging the mobile device. These solutions allow consumers to easily and safely use their mobile devices for convenient functions such as calling, messaging and navigation while staying focused on the road.

     Dave Atkinson, business Development Director, Connected Mobility Solutions, Molex, said: "Consumers expect infotainment systems in today's vehicles to respond immediately, without half a moment's delay. "Microchip's ultra-fast USB7002 chip, at 5 Gigabits per second, enables us to maximize the functionality of our in-car media systems."