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Overview
Dr. Robert M. Metcalfe invented Ethernet at the Xerox Palo Alto
Research Center in the 1970s. The IEEE standard was first published
in 1985, and formally titled as "IEEE 802.3 Carrier Sense Multiple
Access with Collision Detection (CSMA/CD) access method and physical
layer specifications." The IEEE standard has since been adopted
by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), making
it the most prevalent networking standard.
Ethernet-based home networking leverages the popularity that Ethernet
gained as a technology in U.S. business organizations, based on
its reputation for security, reliability, and speed.
Ethernet offers two main advantages over other home networking
technologies: adherence to the proven, well-supported IEEE 802.3
standard (making the technology outlook secure) and reliable data
transmission speeds ranging from 10 to 100 Mbps.
Nevertheless, significant disadvantages to Ethernet-based home
networks remain. These networks are often expensive to install due
to the need for special wiring and a hub, but in many cases are
still cheaper than new alternatives. The arrival of Ethernet "in-a-box"
kits in 1999, has somewhat changed this picture. These kits offer
low-cost Ethernet adapter cards, an inexpensive non-managed hub
to direct network traffic, and basic networking software designed
to make installation and use simpler; however, many households will
still need wiring. IDC projects that by 2004, Ethernet-based home
networks will account for 15% of the installed base.
Xilinx Solutions
The Spartan™-II FPGA architecture has enabled a whole new generation
of low-cost high volume solutions. This, combined with a vast portfolio
of soft IP (Intellectual Property) cores allows Spartan-II FPGAs
to provide solutions at a significantly lower cost than ASSPs and
custom ASICs, while offering all of the time-to-market and flexibility
benefits associated with programmable devices. The presentation
provides specific details on how Xilinx solutions enable Ethernet
based home networking.
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