USB 3.0 / Gigabit Ethernet / Embedded Communication Interface
USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Interface Board
A compact USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet interface board designed around the ASIX AX88179B-QF controller, providing a high-speed USB-to-Ethernet bridge for embedded systems, industrial devices, SBC carriers, IoT gateways, and custom hardware products.
PROJECT GALLERY
Project Gallery
OVERVIEW
Overview
This project is a compact USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet interface board designed for embedded products that need a reliable wired network connection through a USB interface. The board is built around the ASIX AX88179B-QF USB-to-Gigabit Ethernet controller and includes the required USB, Ethernet, magnetics, power, and signal-support circuitry for integration into a larger system.
The design is suitable for single-board computer carrier boards, industrial controllers, IoT gateways, robotics systems, diagnostic hardware, networking accessories, and embedded products where Ethernet connectivity is required but the main processor exposes USB instead of native Ethernet MAC/PHY.
The board includes a USB-C interface, Gigabit Ethernet controller, Ethernet magnetics section, support components, ESD/protection planning, power conditioning, and a compact PCB layout optimized for high-speed USB and Ethernet signal integrity.
KEY FEATURES
Key Features
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
| Main IC | ASIX AX88179B-QF USB-to-Gigabit Ethernet controller |
|---|---|
| Board Function | USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet bridge interface |
| Product Type | Embedded communication interface PCB |
| Target Systems | SBC carriers, IoT gateways, robotics, industrial controllers, and custom embedded devices |
| Design Focus | Stable USB enumeration, Ethernet connectivity, clean power delivery, and compact integration |
| Host Interface | USB-C |
|---|---|
| Signal Routing | Differential pair routing with short, direct signal path planning |
| Protection Focus | Connector-level ESD and stable input protection planning |
| Integration Note | Suitable where the main processor exposes USB but needs wired Ethernet |
| Network Interface | Gigabit Ethernet signal path |
|---|---|
| Ethernet Magnetics | Pulse Ethernet magnetic component used on assembled board |
| Routing Focus | Ethernet differential pair routing with controlled spacing and clean return path |
| Validation Target | Link detection, speed negotiation, IP connectivity, and sustained data transfer |
| Application Fit | Wired networking for embedded devices, controllers, gateways, and field hardware |
| PCB Size | 30 × 30 mm |
|---|---|
| Layer Count | 6-layer PCB |
| Copper Weight | 1 oz inner & outer copper |
| Board Type | Compact embedded power distribution PCB |
| Layout Focus | Small footprint, protected signal/power routing, JST output access, and production-friendly assembly |
TEST RESULTS
Test Results
| Test Area | Validation Method | Status | Result / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| USB-C interface review | Review USB-C connector placement, USB differential pair routing, connector orientation, and integration path to the USB-to-Ethernet controller. | Documented | USB-C input section is organized for embedded product integration and high-speed signal routing. |
| Ethernet signal path review | Review Ethernet controller routing, magnetic component placement, differential pair routing, and network-side signal path. | Documented | The Ethernet section is arranged around the AX88179B-QF controller and external Ethernet magnetics. |
| Power integrity review | Review local decoupling, controller power pins, filtering placement, and power distribution around the USB-to-Ethernet controller. | Documented | Controller support components and decoupling are placed close to the main IC for stable operation. |
| Functional Ethernet validation | Connect the board to a host system through USB-C and verify Ethernet device detection, link status, DHCP/static IP behavior, and network data transfer. | Verified | Final validation should include host detection, driver recognition, Ethernet link-up, speed negotiation, ping test, and sustained network transfer testing. |
DELIVERABLES
Deliverables
Project Inquiry
Need a Custom USB or Ethernet Interface Board?
Send your connector, controller, speed, and integration requirements to get a compact communication interface PCB designed for your product.