LAN9252/PT - 2/3-Port EtherCAT Controller | Microchip
MPN: LAN9252/PT ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $5.2491 | $5.25 |
| 10 | $5.2491 | $52.49 |
| 100 | $5.2491 | $524.91 |
| 500 | $5.2491 | $2,624.55 |
| 1,000 | $5.2491 | $5,249.10 |
LAN9252/PT Overview
An EtherCAT slave controller, or ESC, is a specialized communications semiconductor that manages EtherCAT frames and transfers process data between an EtherCAT network and an embedded controller. In the broader hierarchy, the LAN9252/PT belongs to network and industrial interface integrated circuits: it combines a digital EtherCAT controller, full-duplex Ethernet PHYs, a host-side SPI interface, and local data-management functions. The integrated PHYs also provide HP Auto-MDIX, allowing direct-connect or crossover cables, while 100BASE-FX operation is supported through an external fiber transceiver.
Verified device features include two or three EtherCAT ports, dual integrated Ethernet PHYs, full-duplex 100BASE-TX operation at 100 Mbps, HP Auto-MDIX, and support for an SPI host interface. The exact electrical ratings, memory configuration, temperature limits, timing values, and pin-level functions must be confirmed in the Microchip manufacturer datasheet before layout or firmware development.
The LAN9252/PT is suited to EtherCAT servo drives, I/O modules, industrial automation controllers, motion-control equipment, and distributed factory-control systems. Its two integrated PHYs let a three-port EtherCAT device pass network traffic through its integrated ports; two-port operation is also possible. Copper Ethernet uses the integrated transceivers, whereas fiber links require an external 100BASE-FX transceiver.
PCB implementation requires careful separation between digital interfaces and analog Ethernet circuitry, compliant Ethernet magnetics, controlled impedance routing, solid return paths, and thermal management of the exposed pad. Firmware must also implement the required EtherCAT state machine, device profile, process-data mapping, and host-interface behavior rather than treating the controller as a generic Ethernet switch.
This product page consolidates the verified manufacturer description, distributor packaging information, pricing context, available migration guidance, and practical integration constraints. It also distinguishes true drop-in interchangeability from broader Ethernet alternatives that do not preserve the LAN9252 EtherCAT architecture.
Drop-in alternatives for LAN9252/PT — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with LAN9252/PT (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Auto-MDIX, Device Type, Host Interface, Package.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
LAN9252I/PT
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
Contact for price
View Datasheet →LAN9253
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
LAN9254
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
LAN9252T/PT
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
EPM7128AET1100-7
✓ In Stock
$16.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →LAN9252/PT Specifications
| Device Type | 2/3-port EtherCAT slave controller |
| Integrated Ethernet PHY Count | 2 |
| Copper Ethernet Data Rate | 100 Mbps |
| Copper Ethernet Standard | 100BASE-TX |
| Ethernet Duplex | Full duplex |
| Auto-MDIX | HP Auto-MDIX |
| Fiber Support | 100BASE-FX through an external fiber transceiver |
| Host Interface | SPI |
| Supply Voltage Range | 1.8 V to 3.3 V |
| Package | 64-pin TQFP exposed-pad, 10 mm x 10 mm |
| Mounting Type | Surface mount |
| Ethernet Interface Classification | 10/100 Ethernet controller with integrated PHYs |
| Cable Support | Direct-connect or crossover LAN cables |
| Topology Support | 2-port and 3-port EtherCAT operation |
| Core Voltage | 1.8 V |
| I/O Voltage | 2.5 V or 3.3 V |
LAN9252/PT 64-pin tqfp exposed-pad, 10 mm x 10 mm Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for LAN9252/PT (64-pin tqfp exposed-pad, 10 mm x 10 mm package). Pin numbering, functions, and connection diagrams are defined in the manufacturer datasheet. Refer to it for the exact footprint and soldering guidelines.
No detailed pinout data available for LAN9252/PT.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
LAN9252/PT is suitable for 7 applications: EtherCAT Servo Drive Interface, Distributed Industrial I/O Module, Industrial Motion Controller, Programmable Automation Terminal, EtherCAT Sensor Gateway, Factory Network Diagnostic Node, Power Conversion Equipment.
EtherCAT Servo Drive Interface
The LAN9252/PT fits an EtherCAT servo-drive controller where the drive needs two integrated 100 Mbps 100BASE-TX PHYs and a deterministic host connection. Its 2/3-port architecture can support line-through EtherCAT topology, while the SPI interface connects the ESC to a real-time processor that runs the EtherCAT state machine and motion-control firmware. The verified 1.8 V to 3.3 V supply range supports mixed-voltage system design, but the exposed pad still requires careful thermal and layout planning.
Recommended
Distributed Industrial I/O Module
For a distributed I/O module, the LAN9252/PT combines the EtherCAT slave-controller function with two copper PHYs in one 64-pin TQFP exposed-pad package. Two-port operation can terminate a short EtherCAT segment, while three-port line-through operation can continue the network through the module. HP Auto-MDIX simplifies installation by accepting direct-connect or crossover copper cables, although the host processor must still handle process-data mapping and device-specific diagnostics.
Recommended
Industrial Motion Controller
The LAN9252/PT is appropriate for a multi-axis motion controller requiring EtherCAT communications alongside deterministic local control. Its dual full-duplex 100BASE-TX PHYs provide 100 Mbps Ethernet links, and the SPI interface allows a host MCU or application processor to exchange process data. The device does not replace the motor-drive power stage or real-time control algorithm; engineers must implement timing, synchronization, and EtherCAT application-layer behavior in system firmware.
Recommended
Programmable Automation Terminal
A programmable automation terminal can use the LAN9252/PT when it needs EtherCAT slave connectivity without a separate Ethernet PHY for each copper port. The two integrated PHYs support the network-facing copper links, and the SPI host interface provides a defined path to the terminal's application processor. HP Auto-MDIX improves field-installation flexibility, while external 100BASE-FX transceivers can be added when longer-distance fiber links are required.
Recommended
EtherCAT Sensor Gateway
The LAN9252/PT can form the communications core of an industrial sensor gateway that receives EtherCAT process data and presents it to sensors or actuators. Its dual integrated 100BASE-TX PHYs support copper EtherCAT line-through connections, while the SPI interface allows a microcontroller to exchange compact real-time data blocks. The gateway design must account for cable magnetics, isolation requirements, grounding, and the controller's verified electrical operating limits before production release.
Recommended
Factory Network Diagnostic Node
A factory diagnostic or test node can use the LAN9252/PT to monitor EtherCAT segment behavior through two integrated copper PHYs. HP Auto-MDIX reduces cabling errors in service environments, and the SPI host interface allows a controller to capture counters, status flags, and process data. The diagnostic node should include isolated communication boundaries, controlled-impedance routing, and a test strategy that validates cable, magnetics, and firmware behavior across the complete EtherCAT line.
Recommended
Power Conversion Equipment
In power-conversion equipment, the LAN9252/PT can provide EtherCAT supervisory communications while an MCU controls the conversion function. The integrated 100BASE-TX PHYs reduce the number of discrete network interfaces, and the 1.8 V to 3.3 V range can align with the controller rail and selected I/O levels. Galvanic isolation requirements, high-creepage copper interfaces, electromagnetic compatibility, and the exposed-pad thermal path must be designed independently from the digital EtherCAT logic.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for LAN9252/PT — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | LAN9252I/PT | LAN9253 | LAN9254 | LAN9252T/PT | ET1100 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology | Microchip Technology |
Key Differentiators
- Integrated dual copper PHYs in the EtherCAT controller (vs ET1100)
- Verified 2/3-port EtherCAT positioning (vs LAN9253)
- Clear 100BASE-FX expansion path (vs LAN9254)
- Verified package and supply context (vs LAN9252T/PT)
Design Notes
Treat the Ethernet PHY section as a controlled-impedance, high-speed analog layout area rather than as ordinary digital routing. Place the LAN9252/PT, its recommended decoupling, and the Ethernet magnetic components according to the manufacturer reference layout. Keep the 100BASE-TX differential pairs short, continuous over reference planes, and isolated from switching nodes. Do not route Ethernet pairs through or beneath unrelated power and digital circuitry without checking return-current paths.
The exposed pad is part of the thermal design and must be connected to the recommended copper and ground structure. Estimate pad heat flow from the actual controller dissipation and the PCB copper area, then verify junction temperature against the datasheet limit. The supplied data does not provide thermal resistance or maximum power figures, so do not substitute invented values; use the manufacturer datasheet and board-specific thermal measurement before production.
A standard Ethernet PHY is not interchangeable with the LAN9252/PT: the ESC includes EtherCAT-specific protocol and process-data behavior in addition to physical-layer functions. Likewise, Microchip's AN3621 migration guide specifically documents differences when moving from LAN9252 to LAN9253 or LAN9254. Review pin assignments, configuration straps, EEPROM behavior, timing, and firmware before approving any substitute or migration.
Validate the Ethernet interface with the production magnetics, enclosure, cable shield, and grounding arrangement. HP Auto-MDIX simplifies cable compatibility but does not eliminate EMC, isolation, or emissions testing. Use the manufacturer's reference layout and application guidance as the starting point, then perform conducted and radiated emissions testing on the completed assembly. Fiber deployment also requires deliberate grounding and isolation review for the external 100BASE-FX transceiver.
The verified supply range is 1.8 V to 3.3 V, so the power tree must match the selected core and I/O rails. Follow the datasheet's recommended capacitor placement and sequencing requirements rather than relying on generic bulk decoupling. Keep the EtherCAT PHY supply and digital supply return paths continuous under transient conditions, and verify that the host MCU, magnetics, external fiber transceiver, and LAN9252/PT share a compatible ground and isolation strategy.
Compliance Information
The supplied verified data does not state RoHS, REACH, AEC-Q100, lead-free, halogen-free, or conflict-minerals status. Compliance must be confirmed using the current Microchip product documentation and applicable supply-chain declarations.
