LAN91C96I-MS

Controllers Overview

The LAN91C96I-MS is a non-PCI single-chip full duplex Ethernet controller manufactured by Microchip Technology. It integrates MAC and physical layer functions, including a 10BASE-T transceiver and an AUI interface, within a 100-pin QFP package. The device supports IEEE 802.3 standards with 6K bytes of on-chip RAM for packet buffering. It operates at 10 Mb/s data rates using a 16-bit local bus interface with no wait states. Power supply requirements range from 3.3V to 5.5V, and the industrial temperature operating range spans from -40°C to +85°C.

Controllers Feature Summary

• Integrates hardware Memory Management Unit (MMU) for efficient packet handling without CPU intervention.
• Supports full duplex switched Ethernet with independent transmit and receive operations.
• Features automatic detection of TX/RX polarity reversal and link integrity testing.
• Includes enhanced power management capabilities supporting Magic Packet technology.

Controllers Applications

• Embedded systems requiring high-performance 10BASE-T network connectivity.
• Industrial control applications necessitating wide temperature operation ranges.
• Diskless local bus applications utilizing boot PROM support.
• Mobile PC Card LAN adapters due to low profile package options.

Controllers Procurement Notes

Verify the specific ordering suffix MS confirms the 100-pin QFP lead-free RoHS compliant package configuration. Ensure compatibility with the required local bus interface architecture and voltage levels before integration. Confirm that the industrial temperature grade meets the environmental specifications of the target deployment scenario.

Controllers Selection Notes

Select this component when a pin-compatible solution to the LAN91C92 or LAN91C94 is required in local bus mode. Choose this controller for designs needing integrated 10BASE-T transceivers and AUI interfaces without external PHY components. Consider the 6K byte RAM capacity for applications involving simultaneous transmit and receive traffic or increased system latency.

Controllers Part Context

This part belongs to the LAN91C96i series of non-PCI Ethernet controllers. It maintains software and pin compatibility with the LAN91C92 and LAN91C94 models in local bus environments. The series is designed to provide high integration by combining MAC, PHY, and memory functions into a single VLSI chip for embedded networking solutions.

Controllers Replacement Considerations

Public confirmed substitute part numbers include LAN91C92 and LAN91C94, which are pin and software compatible in local bus mode. Verify that the replacement part number matches the specific package type and voltage requirements of the original design.

Controllers FAQ

Does the LAN91C96I-MS support full duplex switched Ethernet?

Yes, the LAN91C96i fully supports full duplex switched Ethernet, allowing for independent transmit and receive operations to provide higher throughput.

What is the function of the internal Memory Management Unit (MMU)?

The hardware MMU manages packet memory in 256-byte pages, enabling dynamic allocation between transmit and receive queues and reducing software overhead compared to ring buffer architectures.

Can the LAN91C96I-MS interface with external transceivers?

Yes, while it integrates a 10BASE-T transceiver, it also provides an AUI interface to connect to external transceivers for 10BASE5, 10BASE2, or 10BASE-F implementations.