Broadcom MT7628KN/A: A Comprehensive Technical Overview

The Broadcom MT7628KN/A stands as a highly integrated system-on-a-chip (SoC) designed specifically for high-performance wireless networking applications. As a successor to earlier designs in its family, this chipset has been widely adopted in a diverse range of products, from mainstream routers and range extenders to advanced Internet of Things (IoT) gateways, establishing itself as a cornerstone of reliable and efficient connectivity solutions.

Core Architecture and Processing Power

At its heart, the MT7628KN/A features a MIPS 24KEc core operating at up to 580 MHz. This proven processor architecture delivers a robust balance of processing power and energy efficiency, making it capable of handling the demanding data processing tasks required for routing, network address translation (NAT), and quality of service (QoS) features. This processing muscle ensures smooth performance for simultaneous wired and wireless data transmission, even in bandwidth-intensive environments.

Advanced Wireless Connectivity

A key feature of this SoC is its integrated 2x2 MIMO 802.11n Wi-Fi radio, which supports a maximum PHY rate of 300 Mbps. The inclusion of 2.4 GHz band support ensures broad compatibility with the vast ecosystem of existing Wi-Fi devices. The integrated MIMO technology significantly enhances wireless range and reliability by using multiple antennas to reduce dead spots and improve signal integrity, providing a stable connection throughout a user's environment.

Highly Integrated Design and Peripherals

The MT7628KN/A is renowned for its high level of integration, which reduces the total bill of materials (BOM) and simplifies product design. Beyond the CPU and wireless radio, it incorporates:

A 5-port Fast Ethernet (FE) switch with support for one WAN and multiple LAN ports, eliminating the need for an external switch IC.

A USB 2.0 host controller for connecting external storage or 3G/4G dongles, expanding the functionality of end devices.

Multiple interfaces including UART, I2C, SPI, and PCM/I2S, providing developers with the flexibility to connect a wide array of peripherals such as sensors, displays, or voice modules for IoT applications.

Software Support and Ecosystem

Broadcom provides strong SDK support for the platform, typically based on a Linux kernel. This open environment allows manufacturers and developers to create highly customized firmware and feature-rich applications. The robust ecosystem has led to widespread support in open-source firmware projects, further extending the chip's capabilities and lifespan in the market.

Target Applications

The combination of processing performance, integrated connectivity, and peripheral support makes the MT7628KN/A ideal for a wide spectrum of applications:

Dual-Band Concurrent Routers: Often paired with a 5 GHz radio chip to create cost-effective AC750 and AC1200 class routers.

Wireless Range Extenders / Repeaters

Home Automation Gateways

IoT Access Points and industrial control systems.

Embedded Wireless Modules

ICGOODFIND: The Broadcom MT7628KN/A is a testament to the evolution of highly integrated networking SoCs. It successfully balances performance, cost-effectiveness, and a rich feature set, making it a versatile and enduring solution for manufacturers aiming to develop reliable wireless products for both consumer and emerging IoT markets.

Keywords: System-on-a-Chip (SoC), MIPS 24KEc, 2x2 MIMO, 802.11n, Fast Ethernet Switch