USB2533I-1080AEN: Microchip's 4-Port USB 2.0 Hub Controller for Embedded Applications

The USB2533I-1080AEN from Microchip Technology is a highly integrated, industrial-grade 4-port USB 2.0 hub controller designed specifically for demanding embedded applications. This compact and robust solution provides a reliable method for expanding USB connectivity in systems where space, power, and reliability are paramount.

Engineered for versatility, the hub supports low-speed (1.5 Mbps), full-speed (12 Mbps), and high-speed (480 Mbps) data rates across all its downstream ports. A key feature is its fully autonomous operation, which requires no external firmware or programming, simplifying design-in and accelerating time to market. The controller incorporates a MultiTRAK™ multi-transaction translator technology. This advanced architecture includes multiple transaction translators (TTs) per hub, significantly improving overall data throughput by allowing concurrent transactions across all active ports. This is a major advantage over single-TT hubs, which can create bottlenecks when multiple full-speed devices are in use.

For embedded designers, the USB2533I-1080AEN offers critical flexibility. It supports a wide range of configurable downstream port modes, including enabling battery charging support (BC 1.2) for downstream devices and the ability to disable individual ports. Its industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) ensures stable performance in harsh environments, from factory automation to medical equipment. The hub also features robust power management capabilities, supporting both bus-powered and self-powered configurations, which helps optimize the power budget of the end product.

Security and reliability are further enhanced with integrated features like non-removable device identification, which ensures specific peripherals are always connected, and comprehensive over-current detection on each downstream port for superior system protection.

ICGOOODFIND: The Microchip USB2533I-1080AEN stands out as a premier, off-the-shelf solution for adding robust and high-performance USB expansion to embedded systems. Its combination of high integration, superior data handling with MultiTRAK™ technology, industrial robustness, and design simplicity makes it an excellent choice for developers across medical, industrial, and IoT applications.

Keywords: USB 2.0 Hub Controller, Embedded Applications, MultiTRAK™ Technology, Industrial Temperature, Battery Charging Support (BC 1.2)