KSZ9897 vs. KSZ9477: Comparing High-Performance Ethernet Switch Solutions

1、Introduction

In today's digital age, network connectivity is crucial for data centers, industrial automation, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and various embedded systems. High-performance Ethernet switching solutions are a key component for reliable communication. Microchip Technology's KSZ9897 and KSZ9477, both highly regarded high-performance Ethernet switches, offer exceptional network performance and a range of features to meet diverse application needs. Let’s talk about KSZ9897 and KSZ9477

2、Overview of KSZ9897

The KSZ9897 is a high-performance 8-port gigabit Ethernet switch from Microchip Technology. It boasts outstanding performance and scalability, making it suitable for various embedded and industrial applications, including industrial automation, robotics, and intelligent traffic systems.

3、Overview of KSZ9477

The KSZ9477, also from Microchip Technology, is a high-performance 10-port gigabit Ethernet switch. It is specifically designed to meet demanding real-time communication requirements and is suitable for industrial automation, smart homes, industrial IoT, and other applications.

Before delving into their differences, let's first look at their similarities:

4、Common Features of KSZ9897 and KSZ9477

KSZ9897 and KSZ9477 share several common features, including：

4.1 Port Count: Both provide more than 8 Ethernet ports, supporting various connection configurations for scalability. 

4.2 Gigabit Ethernet: Both support gigabit Ethernet speeds, offering high bandwidth and low-latency data transmission. 

4.3 Embedded Integration: These switches feature highly integrated designs, effectively reducing PCB footprint, and are suitable for embedded systems. 

4.4 Wide Application Scope: KSZ9897 and KSZ9477 can be applied in various fields, including industrial automation, embedded systems, smart homes, IoT devices, and more. 

4.5 Rich Features: They both offer a variety of features such as Virtual LAN (VLAN) support, Quality of Service (QoS) support, and network security capabilities, catering to diverse application requirements.

Controlling KSZ9897 Gigabit Ethernet Switch with I2Cdriver

Now, let's explore the differences between KSZ9897 and KSZ9477:

5、Differences between KSZ9897 and KSZ9477

5.1 Port Count

KSZ9897：This chip features 8 gigabit Ethernet ports, making it ideal for small to medium-sized local area network switching applications. 

KSZ9477: In contrast, the KSZ9477 has 7 gigabit Ethernet ports and 3 Fast Ethernet ports, making it more suitable for complex network topologies that require more ports.

5.2 Power Management 

KSZ9897: Offers various low-power modes, supporting efficient power management to extend device lifespan. 

KSZ9477: Similarly supports low-power modes, but due to its higher port count, it may have higher power management demands.

5.3 Integrated Functionality

KSZ9897: Integrates MAC controllers and PHY, reducing external component costs and simplifying board design. 

KSZ9477: Also includes built-in MAC controllers and PHY, providing a highly integrated solution.

5.4 Special Features

KSZ9897: Supports features like flow control, VLAN, traffic classification, and other advanced capabilities, suitable for applications with high demands on network performance and functionality.

KSZ9477: Offers extensive Quality of Service (QoS) features, including IGMP Snooping, making it particularly useful for streaming and multimedia applications.

5.5 Embedded Memory

KSZ9897: Incorporates 128KB of memory for network settings and configuration. 

KSZ9477: Comes with 64KB of memory for network settings and configuration.

The table below summarizes the key comparisons between these two chips:

Getting started with EVB-KSZ9477

6.How to Choose Between KSZ9897 and KSZ9477

The choice between KSZ9897 and KSZ9477 depends on your specific project requirements. Here are some factors to consider:

• If your application demands high real-time performance, especially in industrial automation or real-time control systems, KSZ9477 may be the better fit.
• In environments with advanced network security features, such as data centers, KSZ9897 might be the superior choice.
• Of course, for general embedded systems, smart homes, and small-scale IoT devices, both of these switches are suitable options.

7.KSZ9897 related models

1. KSZ9897RTXC
2. KSZ9897RTXI
3. KSZ9897RTXI-TR
4. KSZ9897RTXC-TR
5. KSZ9897STXI-TR
6. KSZ9897STXC
7. KSZ9897STXI

8.KSZ9477 related models

1. KSZ9477STXI