KSZ8999I: The Leader in High Performance Ethernet Switches

10 January 2024


Ⅰ. Overview of KSZ8999I

Ⅱ. What are the features of KSZ8999I?

Ⅲ. What are the purpose of KSZ8999I?

Ⅳ. Specifications of KSZ8999I

Ⅴ. How to use KSZ8999I?

Ⅵ. What problems may occur when using KSZ8999I?

Ⅶ. Market trends and development of KSZ8999I



KSZ8999I is a low-power, high-performance chip that integrates multiple functions such as data transmission, data processing, and data storage. In the fields of intelligent transportation, smart home and industrial control, this chip has broad application prospects and development space. In this article, we will introduce the relevant information of KSZ8999I.



Ⅰ. Overview of KSZ8999I


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The KSZ8999I, a sophisticated Ethernet switch chip engineered by Microchip Technology (formerly Microsemi), stands as a pinnacle solution for networking deployments. With a robust architecture designed to accommodate diverse network topologies, the KSZ8999I offers multiple Ethernet ports in configurations of 8 ports or more. This chip supports a spectrum of Ethernet speeds, encompassing 10 or 100Mbps and 1Gbps, thereby facilitating seamless connectivity for network devices operating at varied speeds. The KSZ8999I integrates an array of advanced network management and security features, including but not limited to Virtual LAN (VLAN) support, Quality of Service (QoS) management, and Internet Group Management Protocol (IGMP) support. 


Replacements and equivalents:

KS8999

KSZ8999



Ⅱ. What are the features of KSZ8999I?


KSZ8999I has the following features:


First of all, KSZ8999I uses advanced PHY and frame buffer technology, which makes data transmission faster and more stable. This means that your network environment will be greatly optimized, and you can enjoy a smooth experience whether it is file transfer or online gaming.


Secondly, it has built-in PHY module and frame buffer. These hardware designs make KSZ8999I even better in performance. The PHY module is the control unit of the network interface. It is responsible for the transmission and reception of data, and the frame buffer is used to store data frames. This design not only simplifies system design, but also reduces power consumption and improves overall performance. KSZ8999I also supports a variety of interface standards, such as RJ-45, SFP, etc., to facilitate compatibility with existing network equipment.


In addition, KSZ8999I provides a variety of security protection measures such as port isolation and port security, which can effectively prevent network attacks and data leaks.


Additionally, the KSZ8999I's integrated 9-port 10 or 100 switch features a simple management interface, allowing you to easily monitor and manage your entire network. Whether you're new to networking or a seasoned expert, it's easy to get started.


Finally, this switch also has strong integration capabilities, integrating nine 10 or 100 ports into a compact body. This means you can easily deploy more devices in a limited space while keeping your network open. This is a very practical feature for both corporate and individual users.



Ⅲ. What are the purpose of KSZ8999I?


1. Ethernet switch: KSZ8999I can be used to build an Ethernet switch to realize data exchange and forwarding between multiple Ethernet ports. It supports multiple Ethernet standards, such as 10, 100 or 1000Mbps rates, as well as IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3u, IEEE 802.3ab and other protocols.


2. Routers and switches: This chip can be used to build routers and switches to implement data forwarding and routing functions within the LAN. It supports features such as virtual LAN (VLAN) and link aggregation, which can achieve more flexible and efficient network connections.


3. Industrial automation: The chip exhibits reliability and stability suitable for industrial applications, making it ideal for network devices in industrial automation. It accommodates industrial-grade temperature ranges and electrical characteristics, demonstrating adaptability to challenging industrial environments.


4. Wireless access point: KSZ8999I can be used to build a wireless access point to achieve connection and forwarding between wireless networks and wired networks. It supports conversion between Ethernet and Wi-Fi, which can provide wider network coverage.


5. IP camera and video surveillance system: KSZ8999I can be used to build IP cameras and video surveillance systems to realize the transmission and processing of video data. It supports high-speed Ethernet connection and optimized video data transmission, which can provide high-quality video surveillance and recording functions.



Ⅳ. Specifications of KSZ8999I


• It has 9 transceivers.

• Its operating temperature is -40°C to 85°C.

• The power supply voltage of KSZ8999I is 2V to 2.3V.

• Its interface types are 7-Wire, MDI, MDI-X, MII.

• KSZ8999I is manufactured by Microchip Technology.

• KSZ8999I adopts SMD or SMT installation method.

• Its length is 28 mm, width is 28 mm and height is 3.32 mm.

• The chip has 208 pins and comes in a PQFP package and Tray packaging.



Ⅴ. How to use KSZ8999I?


We need to design hardware circuits and circuit boards based on actual application requirements. First, we integrate the KSZ8999I on the circuit board along with other necessary components. We configure and control the KSZ8999I via a serial interface such as I2C or SPI. This includes setting network parameters, configuring port properties, enabling or disabling specific features, etc. After the configuration is completed, KSZ8999I can start data transmission. The chip automatically handles the forwarding and switching of data packets to ensure that data can be transmitted correctly between different ports. During use, we need to regularly check and maintain the operating status of KSZ8999I and deal with possible failures or problems.



Ⅵ. What problems may occur when using KSZ8999I?


• Security: With the increase of cyber-attacks and data leakage incidents, network security is getting more and more attention. When using KSZ8999I, we need to take appropriate security measures, such as configuring firewalls and encrypting transmission to ensure data security.


• Configuration and management: The setup and administration of the KSZ8999I can be intricate and demand specialized expertise. Hence, it is crucial to meticulously review the technical manuals and application guides, adhering to the precise operational procedures throughout the configuration and management phases. These guides serve as valuable resources, aiding users in comprehending the device's diverse functionalities and operational techniques, thereby enhancing their ability to utilize and maintain it effectively.


• Power management: The power consumption of KSZ8999I is quite high, so we need to manage its power supply. During use, we need to provide enough power and take energy-saving measures to reduce power consumption. In order to ensure the normal operation of KSZ8999I, we recommend using a special power supply module and making sure the power supply voltage is stable to avoid damage to the processor.


• Heat dissipation: The Ethernet switch chip generates heat during long-time operation, and poor heat dissipation may cause the chip to overheat and be damaged. Therefore, when using KSZ8999I, we need to consider taking effective heat dissipation measures, such as installing heat sinks or fans.


• Compatibility: Different brands of Ethernet switch chips may have compatibility problems, resulting in the inability to communicate or transmit data properly. Therefore, when using KSZ8999I, we need to ensure its compatibility with our partners' chips and devices.



Ⅶ. Market trends and development of KSZ8999I


The rise of AI last year coincided with an explosion in demand for servers, and therefore Ethernet switch chips experienced a surge in demand. In the AI era, the construction of server networks also requires the participation of switches, so the demand for switch chips with excellent performance such as KSZ8999I has skyrocketed.


In the field of Ethernet switch chips, KSZ8999I faces competition from brands such as Broadcom, Intel, and Marvell. These brands have high market share and brand awareness in the switch chip market and continue to introduce new generations of products to maintain a competitive edge. In addition, with the development of technology and changes in market demand, other types of network switching technologies, such as optical switching and wireless switching, may also become competitors of KSZ8999I. Therefore, KSZ8999I chips need to be constantly innovated and upgraded to meet the constant changes in the market. In addition, we have to improve the performance indexes of the chip, such as energy efficiency, processing power and data transmission speed, through continuous design optimization, so that it can perform well in various application scenarios and win the trust of customers.




Frequently Asked Questions


1. What is the operating temperature range of KSZ8999I?


The operating temperature of KSZ8999I ranges from -40°C to 85°C.


2. What is the replacement and equivalent of KSZ8999I?


You can replace the KSZ8999I with KS8999 or KSZ8999.


3. What are some key features of the KSZ8999I?


Some key features include VLAN support, QoS (Quality of Service), port mirroring, IGMP (Internet Group Management Protocol) snooping, and extensive management capabilities.


4. Does the KSZ8999I support Power over Ethernet (PoE)?


No, the KSZ8999I does not support Power over Ethernet. It is a switch IC focused on data connectivity.