Microchip PCIe® Connects Multiple Endpoints

Amid the fast-paced evolution of modern technology, the demand for high-speed, reliable and scalable connectivity is at an all-time high. From Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) to cloud infrastructure, enterprise storage and automotive self-driving systems, the need for robust data transfer and seamless communication between devices is critical. Our new family of Switchtec™ PCIe^® Gen 4.0 16-Lane Switches, the Microchip PCI100x series, is purpose-built to address these challenges, offering a cost-effective, high-performance and highly reliable solution for a wide range of applications.

High-Performance, Scalable PCIe Switches for Seamless Connectivity

At the heart of the PCI100x family is a commitment to delivering ultra-low latency and high bandwidth. These switches are engineered to enable seamless data flow across multiple endpoints, making them suitable for high-speed applications such as AI at the Edge, GPU accelerators and SSD enclosures. The PCI100x switches support up to 16-lane configurations, providing extremely high-bandwidth communication that is essential for data-intensive environments like servers, storage systems and industrial computing platforms.

A key feature is the optimization for low-cost embedded system design without compromising on performance. Designers can achieve high-density, low-power solutions that meet budget constraints while still delivering the speed and reliability required for advanced applications.

Multi-host support is enabled through Non-Transparent Bridging (NTB), which allows secure domain isolation, fit for redundant or safety-critical architectures. Independent systems can share PCIe infrastructure without sacrificing performance or reliability—a critical advantage for system-on-module (SOM) customers and industrial users with PCIe expansion requirements. Whether you're building AI/ML platforms, military-grade robotics or multi-tenant cloud gaming servers, NTB provides the flexibility and security needed for complex architectures.

Robust and Reliable for Mission-Critical Applications

Reliability is non-negotiable in mission-critical applications, and the PCI100x family delivers on this front with a suite of advanced features. Each switch is equipped with an embedded processor that enables hardware-based secure boot, safeguarding systems against tampering and unauthorized code deployment. This confirms that only trusted firmware is executed, enforcing data security at the hardware level.

To further enhance system reliability, the PCI100x switches incorporate Automatic Error Reporting (AER), which provides real-time data integrity monitoring. In the event of a malfunction, features like Downstream Port Containment (DPC) and Completion Timeout Synthesis (CTS) allow the system to isolate faulty nodes, preventing errors from propagating and maintaining overall system functionality. These capabilities are especially valuable in environments where uptime and data integrity are paramount, such as military, telecommunications and industrial automation.

The PCI100x family is also designed to operate across a wide range of temperatures, supporting commercial (0°C to +70°C), industrial (−40°C to +85°C) and automotive-grade (−40°C to +105°C) environments. With ISO-26262 ASIL-B certification, these switches are well-suited for safety-critical systems, including automotive self-driving cars and robotics, where reliability and safety are essential.

Cost-Effective and Future-Ready

In addition to performance and reliability, the PCI100x family is engineered for cost efficiency and future readiness. The switches are purpose-built with highly integrated features, reducing the need for external components and simplifying system design. This integration not only significantly lowers overall cost but also streamlines the development process, enabling faster time-to-market for new products.

Optimized for mass-market automotive and embedded computing applications, the PCI100x switches offer high-density, low-power and dependable designs. This makes them a suitable choice for embedded systems where space, power and reliability are at a premium. By supporting the latest PCIe specifications, the PCI100x family delivers long-term deployment with future-ready performance and seamless scalability, making it a smart investment for evolving edge environments—keeping your systems agile, competitive and upgrade-ready.

Set a New Standard for High-Performance, Reliable and Cost-Effective PCIe Connectivity

The versatility of the Microchip PCI100x family is reflected in its broad range of target applications. Whether it’s enabling high-speed data transfer in AI/ML clusters, supporting scalable storage solutions or providing robust connectivity for automotive self-driving systems, these switches are designed for most demanding applications including cloud infrastructure, cloud gaming, military, telecommunications, robotics and industrial.

The Microchip PCI100x series sets a new benchmark for high-performance, reliable and cost-effective connectivity across diverse, data-intensive environments by combining ultra-low latency, multi-host support, robust security features and broad temperature tolerance. These switches empower designers to create scalable systems that are equipped to address evolving demands of tomorrow.

For more information please visit our website.