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Energy Efficient Ethernet (802.3az) | STAR ELECTRONICS

Energy Efficient Ethernet (802.3az): Reducing Power Consumption in Vehicles

Energy efficiency has become a vital design consideration in modern vehicles, especially electric vehicles (EVs), where every watt saved contributes to extended range and optimized performance. IEEE 802.3az, known as Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE), offers a practical solution by reducing power usage during idle network periods, without compromising data throughput or reliability.
What is 802.3az (EEE)?

IEEE 802.3az introduces Low Power Idle (LPI) modes to Ethernet interfaces. When no data is being transmitted, the interface enters a low-power state. As soon as communication resumes, it switches back to active mode with minimal latency, ensuring seamless, real-time data exchange, which is crucial in automotive environments.

Key technical features:

  • Compatible with both 100BASE-T1 and 1000BASE-T1 Ethernet standards

  • Backward compatibility with non-EEE devices

Why EEE Matters in Automotive Applications

  1. Extended EV Range
    Lower network power consumption reduces battery load, helping to increase driving range, especially important in electric vehicles.

  2. Reduced Heat Generation
    By minimizing power draw during idle times, EEE reduces thermal stress on components like Ethernet switches and ECUs, enhancing reliability and lifespan.

  3. Support for OEM Sustainability Goals
    Automotive manufacturers are increasingly adopting energy-efficient technologies to meet environmental standards and regulatory requirements.

Compatible Hardware and Use Cases

EEE is being integrated into leading Ethernet PHYs, controllers, and switches designed for automotive use. It is particularly effective in:

  • ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems): Enables energy savings when sensors are idle, without interrupting continuous data streams

  • Infotainment and Connectivity Modules: Reduces unnecessary power consumption during low activity periods

  • Vehicle Gateways and ECUs: Enhances thermal stability in compact, high-density electronic units

Key Takeaway

Integrating Energy Efficient Ethernet (802.3az) is a straightforward yet powerful way to reduce energy consumption and heat generation in vehicles, especially in electric and hybrid architectures.

Glossary

Term

Definition

IEEE 802.3az

A networking standard that introduces energy-saving features to Ethernet interfaces

Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE)

A feature of 802.3az that reduces power consumption during idle periods

Low Power Idle (LPI)

A mode where Ethernet interfaces consume minimal power when no data is being transmitted

100BASE-T1 / 1000BASE-T1

Automotive Ethernet standards for 100 Mbps and 1 Gbps data rates over single twisted-pair cables

PHY (Physical Layer Device)

A hardware component that handles the physical transmission of data over Ethernet

ECU (Electronic Control Unit)

Embedded systems in vehicles that control various functions such as engine, braking, or infotainment

ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems)

Systems that enhance vehicle safety and driving comfort through sensors and automation

PoE (Power over Ethernet)

Technology that allows Ethernet cables to carry electrical power along with data

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer)

A company that produces parts or systems used in another company's end prod

Efficient Vehicle Networks with STAR ELECTRONICS – Ready for Future Standards

Energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important in modern vehicle architectures - especially in electric and hybrid vehicles, where every watt saved contributes to greater driving range and system stability. The IEEE 802.3az standard (Energy Efficient Ethernet, EEE) offers a targeted approach to reducing power consumption in Ethernet networks.

Although the current products from STAR ELECTRONICS do not yet directly support this standard, they still offer a wide range of benefits for energy-optimized vehicle networks. Components such as 1000BASE-T1 media converters, automotive Ethernet switches, and PoE injectors are characterized by:

  • robust, automotive-grade design

  • high reliability under demanding environmental conditions

  • optimized power consumption and thermal behavior

  • full compatibility with common automotive Ethernet standards

These features make them ideal for use in ECUs, gateways, infotainment systems, and ADAS applications.

STAR Electronics stands for practical, reliable solutions in automotive development. And: Should the IEEE 802.3az standard prove to be relevant and in demand within the automotive sector, there are no technical barriers to expanding the product portfolio accordingly. The expertise to develop such solutions is already in place - and STAR Electronics is ready to meet new requirements in close collaboration with its customers.

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