Core Technologies
Driven by real-world needs for narrowband power line communication (N-PLC), we have developed four core technologies focused on architecture, firmware, reliability, and integration to support our modem and vocoder product lines.
RISC + DSP dual-core collaboration; single-chip integration of PHY and MAC
Dual-core SoC architecture
VS1040 features a dual-core RISC and DSP architecture: the DSP core handles fully programmable physical layer modulation, while the 32-bit RISC core manages MAC layer operations, application protocols, and general control functions. This single-chip integration of PHY and MAC delivers an optimal balance between cost efficiency and design flexibility.
Technical Features
- The DSP core supports FSK, PSK, and OFDM modulation and allows for custom physical layers.
- 32 RISC cores implement CSMA/CA channel access and ARQ automatic retransmission
- Supports mesh networking and self-discovery of nodes.
- Built-in watchdog timer and password accelerator
Core Advantages
- One chip covers the complete link from physical layer to application protocols
- Switchable firmware: one hardware, multiple communication solutions
- Reduce peripheral components to lower system BOM cost
One hardware platform supporting both open standards and proprietary protocols.
Multi-standard firmware and proprietary modulation libraries
VS1040 supports multiple firmware images to run open standards like G3-PLC, PRIME, and IEEE 1901.2, as well as proprietary modulation libraries such as xFSK, xPSK, and xOFDM. It delivers data rates up to 500 Kbps within the 500 kHz band and supports custom firmware tailored for specific applications.
Technical Features
- Supports G3-PLC CENELEC A and FCC
- Supports PRIME and IEEE 1901.2
- xFSK / xPSK / xOFDM private libraries optimized for industrial environments
- Supports custom firmware tailored to specific communication protocols
Key Advantages
- Supports different standards and frequency bands without hardware upgrades
- Private library maintains robust communication under harsh channel conditions
- Firmware can also be reused for wired links such as twisted-pair, coaxial, and conductor rail.
Extended Industrial: -40°C to 105°C, Automotive: -40°C to 125°C
Wide-Temperature & Safety Design
VS1040 offers extended industrial and automotive temperature grades, with an operating range of -40 to 105°C and a maximum junction temperature of 125°C. It integrates on-chip hardware encryption and multiple reset sources to ensure long-term reliability in power distribution, building automation, and industrial environments.
Technical Features
- Extended industrial grade: -40~105°C, automotive grade: -40~125°C
- ESD Protection HBM 3500 V, CDM 1000 V
- AES / DES / SHA / SM Algorithm Cryptographic Unit and True Random Number Generator
- Hardware, Power-on, Voltage Monitor, Watchdog, and Software Reset Sources
Core Advantages
- Designed for wide-temperature environments in power distribution, building management, and industrial settings.
- Communication data can be protected by a hardware encryption unit.
- Auto-recovery from abnormal states reduces on-site maintenance costs.
Integrates ADC, DAC, and PGA to minimize external BOM
Highly Integrated Analog Front-End
Integrated analog front-end optimized for narrowband power line communication on-chip: 12-bit–4 MSPS ADC and DAC, 0–36 dB programmable gain amplifiers and operational amplifiers, plus an integrated voltage reference. Achieves optimal signal-to-power efficiency and system cost with minimal external components.
Technical Features
- 12-bit ADC / DAC, Sampling Rate 4 MSPS
- PGA gain range: 0~36 dB
- ADC / DAC Signal-to-Noise and Distortion Ratio 70 dBFS
- Built-in voltage reference; external reference available for enhanced performance
Core Advantages
- External line driver and coupling circuit only
- Reduce Bill of Materials (BOM) costs
- Reduce PCB area and simplify system design
Need technical support?
Our technical team is ready to provide professional consulting and support anytime.