Broadcom BCM1510KCB Gigabit Ethernet Transceiver: Datasheet and Technical Specifications

The Broadcom BCM1510KCB is a highly integrated single-port Gigabit Ethernet transceiver designed to provide a robust and efficient physical layer (PHY) solution for high-speed networking applications. Manufactured using advanced CMOS process technology, this device delivers high performance while maintaining low power consumption, making it suitable for a wide range of equipment, including network interface cards (NICs), switches, routers, and embedded systems.

A core feature of the BCM1510KCB is its full compliance with the IEEE 802.3ab 1000BASE-T standard, ensuring seamless interoperability with other Gigabit Ethernet devices. It supports automatic negotiation and auto-cross over (Auto-MDIX), which simplifies installation by automatically selecting the optimal data rate (10/100/1000 Mbps) and correcting cable polarity without requiring special crossover cables.

The transceiver incorporates sophisticated DSP-based echo cancellation and equalization techniques. This technology is critical for achieving reliable data transmission over standard Category 5 unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) cabling at gigabit speeds, effectively mitigating signal impairments like noise and crosstalk.

Housed in a compact 128-pin MQFP package, the BCM1510KCB offers a highly integrated design. It includes all necessary physical layer functions, such as the Physical Coding Sublayer (PCS), Physical Medium Attachment (PMA), and Physical Medium Dependent (PMD) sublayers, as well as the line drivers and receivers. This integration reduces the total component count and simplifies board design for manufacturers.

From a power management perspective, the device supports Advanced Power Down modes. These modes significantly reduce power consumption when the link is inactive, a crucial feature for energy-conscious applications and modern green computing initiatives.

Key technical specifications include:

Standards Compliance: IEEE 802.3ab (1000BASE-T), 802.3u (100BASE-TX), 802.3 (10BASE-T)

Interface: GMII/MII/RGMII for connection to a Media Access Controller (MAC)

Cabling: Category 5 UTP (4-pair) up to 100 meters

Supply Voltage: 3.3V and 2.5V

Package: 128-pin MQFP

ICGOOODFIND: The Broadcom BCM1510KCB stands as a testament to highly integrated and reliable physical layer design. Its robust DSP technology for signal integrity, compliance with key industry standards, and advanced power management features make it a cornerstone component for developing efficient and high-performance Gigabit Ethernet infrastructure.

Keywords: Gigabit Ethernet Transceiver, IEEE 802.3ab, Physical Layer (PHY), Auto-MDIX, Low Power Consumption