INICnet technology, a synchronous scalable solution
Works with both UTP and 150Mbps coaxial cables
Supported by free network management software UNICENS
As mobile services, cross-domain communications, and autonomous driving applications are added to in-vehicle networking, infotainment systems require more flexible solutions for transporting packet, stream, and control content.

Existing technologies have been costly and labor-intensive to support system updates and internetworking, and have sometimes limited bandwidth and packet data performance. To address these challenges, Microchip Technology today announced an automotive infotainment networking solution capable of supporting all types of data, including audio, video, control and Ethernet, over a single cable.

INICnet (Intelligent Network Interface Controller networking) technology is a synchronous, scalable solution that significantly simplifies the construction of audio and infotainment systems, enabling seamless networking in vehicles with an Ethernet-oriented system architecture.

INICnet technology provides high-speed packet data communication, supporting file transfers, over-the-air (OTA) software updates, and system diagnostics via standard Ethernet frames. It also supports efficient transmission of stream data and seamless integration of IP-based system management and data communications. It eliminates the need for development and licensing of additional protocols or software stacks, reducing development costs, effort, and time.

For audio, one of the core in-car infotainment functions, INICnet technology supports a wide range of digital audio formats through various sources and sinks.

INICnet technology provides a standardized solution that operates over both 50 Mbps Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) and 150 Mbps coaxial cable. Its high scalability and low latency support the deployment of complex audio and acoustics applications. It supports networks ranging from 2 to 50 nodes with integrated network management capabilities, as well as processor-less or slim modules that allow remote configuration and management of nodes.

The Power over Data Line (PoDL) feature embedded in this solution reduces power management costs for microphones and other slim modules. Nodes can be placed in any order, with the same output value, and can communicate directly with other nodes in the system.

INICnet technology is supported by UNICENS (Unified Centralized Network Stack), a free network management software. UNICENS shortens development cycles, reduces software complexity, and simplifies system verification for infotainment systems integrated with INICnet technology. UNICENS integrates easily with IP-based system management and simplifies application code by separating system management from resource management.

“INICnet technology is a future-proof solution that supports Ethernet, audio, video and control over a single cable,” said Matthias Kaestner, vice president of Microchip’s automotive business unit. “It enables OEMs to develop applications that align with the current in-vehicle networking development trends.”