Integrating a coaxial cable driver and receiver into one small-footprint product, Microchip Technology Inc., a provider of microcontroller, mixed-signal, analog and Flash-IP solutions, unveiled the industry's first MOST150 coaxial transceiver today in Chandler, Arizona.

"The OS82150 coaxial transceiver broadens Microchip's portfolio of MOST150 network solutions," Dan Termer, vice president of Microchip's Automotive Information Systems Division, said. "It offers an exciting new option for customers to implement efficient infotainment networks and to easily migrate from optical to coaxial cabling while protecting their existing investment in MOST150 technology. The design-in of the OS82150 is straightforward and total system costs are optimized."

The solution reflects market demands for powerful automotive infotainment systems including a navigation unit, antenna module, amplifier, tuner, Blu-ray player, rear-seat entertainment, instrument cluster, head-unit display and camera. MOST networking technology enables distribution of these multimedia entertainment functions among automotive vehicles’ various interior control devices.

According to the firm, the OS82150 can be easily integrated into existing MOST designs. Additionally, the signal and timing specifications of the OS82150 are compliant with the MOST Physical Layer Specification, ensuring interoperability.

The OS82150 is offered in a 4x4 mm QFN package and is available for sampling and volume production, with pricing of less than $3 in low volumes.