| Built-in I/F for USB7002, Type-C connector
Combining the benefits of USB 3.1 with the popularity of Type-C
| Suitable for vehicles equipped with a 4K black box

As firmware updates and large media files become more common in in-car entertainment consoles, the need for faster data transfer speeds to reduce upload and download times is increasing.

Microchip Technology Inc. (NASDAQ: MCHP) today announced the availability of its automotive-qualified USB 3.1 Gen1 SmartHub IC, which delivers up to 10 times the data transfer speed of existing USB 2.0 solutions and reduces indexing times to improve in-vehicle user experience.
The USB7002 SmartHub IC integrates an interface for a USB Type-C connector to support the growing adoption of USB Type-C products in the smartphone market and universal connectivity in vehicles.

As automakers continue to add more features to their vehicles and integrate mobile applications, USB requires more robust functionality and faster transfer speeds to ensure reliable data transfer.

Consumers can interact with the UI, from transmitting mapping data to playing music, while multiple functions are being performed simultaneously within the vehicle. We expect immediate response within the infotainment system.

The 5 Gbps SuperSpeed data transfer speed of USB 3.1 ensures higher bandwidth and maximum functionality, making it ideal for applications requiring gigabit speeds for faster data streaming, data downloads, and in-vehicle communication. The USB7002 also reduces download times for large-capacity videos, making it ideal for vehicles equipped with 4K dashcams.

Customer demand for faster mobile device charging has driven the rise of USB Type-C in the smartphone industry. The USB7002 combines the benefits of USB 3.1 technology with the popularity of USB Type-C. The USB7002 can connect directly to USB Type-C via a unique Configuration Channel (CC) pin interface and a built-in 2:1 multiplexer that supports double-sided connections of the USB Type-C connector.

“Microchip continues to invest in bringing to market devices that lead USB technology in the automotive industry,” said Charles Forni, general manager of Microchip’s USB and Networking business unit. “From faster mobile device charging in the car console and rear seat to the industry’s first automotive USB 3.1 solution compatible with USB Type-C, Microchip continues to deliver solutions that enhance the user experience in the vehicle.”
Additionally, the SmartHub IC incorporates Microchip's patented FlexConnect technology to support driver assistance applications that are now standard on all mobile smartphones.

This technology provides dynamic swapping capabilities between USB hosts and USB devices. The SmartHub IC also features patented multi-host endpoint reflector technology, which allows USB data to be mirrored between two USB hosts.

This basic feature allows the phone's GUI to be displayed on the vehicle's screen while charging the mobile device, integrating it with in-car voice commands. This allows consumers to easily and safely use their mobile devices while driving, allowing them to make phone calls, send messages, and navigate routes more conveniently while remaining focused on the road.

“Consumers expect instant, responsive responses without delay from today’s in-vehicle infotainment systems,” said Dave Atkinson, business development director for Connected Mobility Solutions at Molex. “Molex leveraged Microchip’s USB7002, with its 5 Gbps SuperSpeed data transfer speeds, to deliver the best-in-class functionality for our automotive media hub.”

The USB7002 IC comes with a solution that includes the MPLAB Connect Configurator hub configuration tool, an evaluation board with schematics, and Gerber data to reduce development time.

Manufacturers can significantly reduce time to market by pre-validating designs and layouts through Microchip's USBCheck service before sending out PCBs for mass production.

The USB7002-I/KDXVA0 is AEC-Q100 Grade 3 qualified and is available starting at $4.05 in volume production.