BCM54640EB2KFBG Quad-Port Gigabit Ethernet Transceiver | Datasheet, Pinout, and Design Resources

The BCM54640EB2KFBG is a highly integrated quad-port Gigabit Ethernet transceiver from Broadcom, designed to deliver high-performance networking for a wide range of applications, including enterprise switches, network interface cards, and embedded systems. This transceiver combines four independent Gigabit Ethernet transceivers into a single 196-pin BGA package, offering a compact and power-efficient solution for high-density port designs.

Each of the four channels fully complies with the IEEE 802.3, 802.3u, 802.3ab, and 802.3z standards, supporting 10/100/1000BASE-T operations over standard CAT-5 twisted-pair cabling. A key feature of this device is its support for Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE) as defined in the IEEE 802.3az standard, which significantly reduces power consumption during periods of low data activity. This makes it an ideal choice for modern, eco-conscious network infrastructure.

The transceiver interfaces directly with a MAC layer through four SerDes lanes or a GMII/RGMII interface, providing design flexibility. It incorporates advanced DSP technology and mixed-signal processing to enable robust performance in the presence of noise and crosstalk, ensuring reliable data integrity over extended cable lengths.

Datasheet and Pinout

The official datasheet is the primary resource for all electrical characteristics, timing diagrams, and absolute maximum ratings. The 196-pin BGA pinout is meticulously detailed, outlining the function of each pin for power (analog and digital), the four differential pairs for each port (TXP/TXN, RXP/RXN), management interface (MDC/MDIO), clock signals, and control pins for hardware reset and power-down modes. Careful PCB layout, especially for the high-speed differential pairs, is critical to achieving optimal signal integrity.

Design Resources

Successful implementation requires leveraging several key design resources:

Reference Schematics: Provide a proven foundation for the power supply decoupling network, magnetics module interface, and correct pin connections.

PCB Layout Guidelines: Offer critical advice on layer stack-up, controlled impedance routing for high-speed traces, and effective grounding strategies to minimize EMI.

Hardware Application Notes: Cover essential topics such as thermal management, configuration register settings, and strategies for passing regulatory compliance (EMI/EMC).

ICGOODFIND Summary

The BCM54640EB2KFBG stands out as a highly integrated and power-optimized solution for building robust, high-density Gigabit Ethernet systems. Its compliance with key IEEE standards, combined with comprehensive manufacturer design support, accelerates development and ensures reliable end-product performance. For engineers, thoroughly reviewing the pinout configuration and layout guidelines is paramount for a first-pass design success.

Keywords: Gigabit Ethernet Transceiver, IEEE 802.3az, Quad-Port, Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE), BGA Package.