Intel WG82574L-SLBA9 Gigabit Ethernet Controller: Datasheet, Features, and Common Applications

The Intel WG82574L-SLBA9 is a highly integrated Gigabit Ethernet controller designed for robust and reliable network connectivity in a variety of computing environments. As part of Intel's extensive family of networking components, this controller is engineered to deliver high-performance networking capabilities for embedded systems, servers, and enterprise-grade desktop platforms.

A primary resource for engineers and system designers is its comprehensive datasheet. This document provides critical details on electrical characteristics, pin configurations, register definitions, and power management features. It outlines the controller's support for PCI Express (PCIe) 1.1 interface, its compatibility with the IEEE 802.3, 802.3ab, and 802.3z standards, and its advanced configuration options through the Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI). The datasheet is essential for implementing the hardware and developing low-level drivers.

The feature set of the WG82574L-SLBA9 is a key reason for its widespread adoption. Its core capabilities include:

High-Performance Gigabit Throughput: Supports full and half-duplex operation at 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds, ensuring efficient data transfer.

Advanced Connectivity Features: It includes Jumbo Frame support (up to 16KB), which significantly reduces CPU overhead and improves performance for large data transfers.

Efficient Data Handling: Technologies like TCP/UDP/IP checksum offload and TCP segmentation offload (TSO) are implemented to free up the host CPU, enhancing overall system efficiency.

Integrated PHY: The controller features an integrated physical layer (PHY), simplifying board design and reducing the total component count.

Manageability: It offers support for Wired for Management (WfM) and Preboot Execution Environment (PXE), enabling remote management and network booting capabilities crucial for enterprise environments.

Low Power States: It supports advanced power management, including ACPI 2.0 compliant low-power states, making it suitable for energy-conscious applications.

These features make the controller exceptionally versatile. Its common applications are found in areas demanding stable and high-speed networking:

Embedded Systems: Used in industrial automation, medical devices, and networking appliances where reliability is paramount.

Server Motherboards: Employed as a dedicated management port (e.g., for Intel's AMT technology) or as an additional LAN port in entry-level servers.

Enterprise Desktop and Workstation Platforms: Provides the backbone for reliable wired connectivity in corporate and professional computing environments.

Network Attached Storage (NAS): Its efficient data handling and jumbo frame support make it ideal for NAS devices requiring fast data throughput.

ICGOODFIND: The Intel WG82574L-SLBA9 stands as a testament to Intel's legacy in reliable networking technology. Its integration of a high-performance MAC and PHY, coupled with advanced offloading capabilities and manageability features, has cemented its role as a trusted solution for embedded and enterprise network connectivity, balancing performance with power efficiency.

Keywords: Gigabit Ethernet Controller, PCI Express, TCP Offload Engine, Jumbo Frames, Embedded Systems