BCM56548A0KFSBLG

Overview

The BCM56548A0KFSBLG is a high-performance Ethernet switch integrated circuit manufactured by Broadcom Limited. It belongs to the Tomahawk series, designed for high-density data center and enterprise core switching applications. The component supports multi-gigabit port speeds and advanced packet processing capabilities required for modern network infrastructure. It utilizes a flip-chip ball grid array (FCBGA) package to accommodate the high pin count necessary for extensive port connectivity and internal memory interfaces.

Feature Summary

• Supports high-throughput packet forwarding with large on-chip buffering to handle burst traffic.
• Integrates hardware acceleration for complex network protocols including VLAN tagging and QoS prioritization.
• Features flexible port configurations to support various physical layer transceivers and fiber optic modules.

Applications

• Core and aggregation layer switches in large-scale data centers
• High-performance enterprise campus backbone networks
• Service provider edge routing and switching equipment

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix KFSBLG against the official datasheet to confirm temperature range and packaging details. Check for End-of-Life (EOL) notices or Product Change Notifications (PCN) as these components may have limited availability. Ensure compatibility with existing board designs regarding voltage levels and signal integrity requirements before procurement.

Selection Notes

Select this component for designs requiring high port density and low latency in core networking roles. Compare against the BCM56546 or BCM56570 series if different port counts or power envelopes are needed. Validate that the system architecture supports the required external memory interfaces and clocking schemes specified in the technical reference manual.

Part Context

This part is part of Broadcom's Tomahawk family of switching silicon, which sets industry standards for bandwidth density. It succeeds earlier generations like the Trident series, offering improved energy efficiency per bit and higher aggregate throughput. The model represents a specific binning or packaging variant within the broader BCM56548 product line.

Replacement Considerations

Direct pin-to-pin replacements are generally not available due to architectural differences between generations. Consider the BCM56546A0KFSBLG for lower port count needs or the BCM56570 series for next-generation performance. Any substitution requires significant redesign of the PCB layout and firmware stack.

FAQ

What is the maximum aggregate throughput of the BCM56548?

The BCM56548 provides an aggregate switching capacity of up to 12.8 Tbps, supporting high-density 100GbE and 400GbE ports.

Does the BCM56548 support P4 programmability?

Yes, the chip supports P4 programming, allowing for flexible packet header parsing and custom forwarding logic implementation.

What is the operating temperature range for the commercial grade version?

The standard commercial grade version typically operates within a 0°C to 85°C ambient temperature range, while industrial variants may extend this range.