Microchip USB3803CI-1-GL-TR USB 3.0 Hub Controller Technical Overview and Application Note
The Microchip USB3803CI-1-GL-TR is a highly integrated, low-power, four-port USB 3.0 hub controller designed to provide robust connectivity and superior performance in a wide range of computing and embedded applications. As the demand for high-speed data transfer and peripheral expansion continues to grow, this controller serves as a critical component, enabling seamless integration of multiple USB 3.0 devices while maintaining full compliance with the USB 3.0 specification.
Technical Overview
Built on an advanced architecture, the USB3803CI-1-GL-TR features a highly integrated design that minimizes external component count, thereby reducing both board space and total system cost. The hub supports SuperSpeed (5 Gbps), High-Speed (480 Mbps), Full-Speed (12 Mbps), and Low-Speed (1.5 Mbps) data rates, ensuring backward compatibility with the vast ecosystem of existing USB 2.0 and USB 1.1 devices.
A key attribute of this controller is its low power consumption, which is achieved through advanced power management features, including aggressive power-down modes for individual ports and the entire hub when not in active use. This makes it exceptionally suitable for power-sensitive applications such as notebooks, desktop docking stations, and portable electronics.
The device incorporates integrated termination and pull-up/pull-down resistors, further simplifying the PCB layout and bill of materials. It supports multiple downstream port configurations and includes comprehensive over-current and fault detection on each downstream port, enhancing system reliability and protecting connected peripherals.
Application Note
In practical application, the USB3803CI-1-GL-TR is engineered for straightforward implementation. Its compact 64-pin QFN package is ideal for space-constrained designs. For a standard hub design, the required external components are minimal, typically limited to crystal oscillators, bypass capacitors, and USB termination resistors.
Designers must pay careful attention to the PCB layout guidelines provided in the datasheet, particularly for the SuperSpeed differential pairs. Maintaining proper impedance control (90Ω differential) and minimizing signal stubs are critical for ensuring signal integrity and achieving optimal SuperSpeed performance.
The hub’s firmware is stored in an internal ROM, enabling a plug-and-play operation without any external firmware or EEPROM requirements. This feature significantly simplifies the manufacturing and inventory process. For custom configuration, such as changing the vendor ID (VID) or product ID (PID), the device does support an optional external serial EEPROM.
A typical application circuit involves connecting the upstream port to a USB 3.0 host controller and routing the four downstream ports to standard USB Type-A connectors or directly to other PCBs via flex cables. The integrated port mapping and disable capability allows designers to configure the hub for a specific number of active ports (e.g., using it as a 2-port or 3-port hub), adding valuable design flexibility.
In summary, the Microchip USB3803CI-1-GL-TR stands out as a highly reliable and cost-effective solution for modern USB hub requirements. Its combination of low power consumption, high integration, and robust feature set makes it an excellent choice for expanding USB connectivity in diverse electronic products, from consumer docks to industrial embedded systems.
Keywords:
1. USB 3.0 Hub Controller
2. Low Power Consumption
3. Integrated Design
4. SuperSpeed (5Gbps)
5. Plug-and-Play
