MARVELL 98DX4122A3-BIH2C000 Gigabit Ethernet Switch Controller Datasheet Overview

The MARVELL 98DX4122A3-BIH2C000 is a highly integrated, high-performance Gigabit Ethernet switch controller designed for next-generation enterprise, data center, and carrier Ethernet applications. This advanced controller leverages Marvell's proven technology to deliver robust switching capabilities, enhanced security, and sophisticated traffic management, making it a cornerstone for modern networking infrastructure.

At its core, the device is built to manage high-bandwidth data traffic with exceptional efficiency. It supports a high-port-count configuration with multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports, facilitating seamless connectivity for a multitude of devices. A key architectural highlight is its non-blocking switch fabric, which ensures wire-speed performance on all ports simultaneously, eliminating bottlenecks and guaranteeing low-latency data transmission critical for real-time applications.

The controller is equipped with a powerful packet processing engine that supports advanced features such as Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching, Quality of Service (QoS), and Access Control Lists (ACLs). These features enable precise traffic prioritization, ensuring optimal performance for latency-sensitive services like voice and video. Furthermore, its robust security suite includes MACsec (IEEE 802.1AE) encryption at the hardware level, providing end-to-end security for data links and protecting against eavesdropping and other attacks.

For network management and virtualization, the 98DX4122A3 supports a comprehensive set of protocols including IEEE 802.1Qbg (EVB) and 802.1BR (Port Extension), simplifying the management of virtualized environments and extending switch functionalities. Its energy-efficient design, compliant with IEEE 802.3az (Energy Efficient Ethernet), also helps reduce power consumption significantly during periods of low data activity.

A notable aspect of this controller is its high level of integration, which reduces the need for external components, thereby simplifying board design and lowering the total system cost. It is packaged in a compact, thermally efficient BGA package, making it suitable for space-constrained applications.

ICGOODFIND: The Marvell 98DX4122A3-BIH2C000 stands out as a highly integrated and feature-rich solution for demanding networking environments. Its combination of wire-speed performance, advanced security, and comprehensive management features makes it an ideal choice for building scalable and efficient network switches.

Keywords: Gigabit Ethernet, Switch Controller, MACsec Encryption, Quality of Service (QoS), Packet Processing.