MARVELL 98DX3233A1-BTD4I000 Gigabit Ethernet Switch Controller Datasheet Overview

The MARVELL 98DX3233A1-BTD4I000 is a highly integrated, high-performance Gigabit Ethernet switch controller designed to meet the demanding requirements of modern enterprise, data center, and carrier-grade networking equipment. This system-on-chip (SoC) solution combines advanced switching capabilities, robust security features, and sophisticated management functions, making it a cornerstone for building scalable and efficient network infrastructure.

At its core, the device supports a high-port-count configuration with multi-gigabit Ethernet interfaces, including 1GbE, 2.5GbE, 5GbE, and 10GbE, providing the flexibility needed for uplinks and high-bandwidth server connections. It is built on a proven, low-power architecture that ensures optimal performance per watt, a critical factor for densely populated switches operating in temperature-constrained environments.

A key strength of the 98DX3233A1-BTD4I000 lies in its advanced feature set. It delivers comprehensive Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching capabilities, including support for static and dynamic routing protocols (RIP, OSPF), IPv4/IPv6 dual-stack routing, and extensive ACLs (Access Control Lists) for granular traffic policy enforcement. Quality of Service (QoS) is managed through sophisticated traffic prioritization mechanisms, including eight egress queues per port and strict priority or weighted round-robin (WRR) scheduling, ensuring low latency and jitter for real-time applications like voice and video.

Security is paramount, and this controller integrates several hardware-accelerated features to protect the network. These include MACsec (IEEE 802.1AE) for link-layer encryption, preventing eavesdropping on inter-switch links, and robust security features like DHCP snooping, Dynamic ARP Inspection (DAI), and IP Source Guard to mitigate malicious attacks.

For manageability, the chip offers multiple interfaces, including a dedicated CPU port, PCIe, and USB, facilitating communication with an external host processor. It supports a comprehensive suite of management options, from a traditional command-line interface (CLI) to SNMP and web-based management, allowing for easy integration into existing network operations centers.

ICGOODFIND: The Marvell 98DX3233A1-BTD4I000 stands out as a powerful and versatile switching solution, expertly balancing high-throughput data forwarding with critical security and management features. Its support for multi-gigabit speeds and advanced Layer 3 functionalities makes it an ideal choice for next-generation top-of-rack (ToR), aggregation, and enterprise core switches.

Keywords: Gigabit Ethernet Switch, Layer 3 Routing, Quality of Service (QoS), MACsec Encryption, System-on-Chip (SoC)