Broadcom BCM56xx/88xx Switch IC Guide for Data-Center Networking
The Broadcom BCM switch families explained
Data-center switching depends on a handful of silicon suppliers, and Broadcom’s BCM56xx / BCM88xx series powers the majority of the world’s Ethernet switches. ICseekers supplies these merchant switch chips to OEM/ODM customers building switches, routers and carrier equipment. Here is a quick orientation to the families we stock.
BCM56xx: enterprise and access switching
The BCM56850A2KFSBLG, BCM56854A2IFSBLG and BCM56860A1KFSBG are Trident-family switch ICs with 10/25/40/100G MAC capability. They integrate ARM CPUs, packet buffers and SerDes, so a complete 48-port switch needs only PHY chips and power. Typical applications: enterprise ToR switches, campus aggregation and SDN appliances.
BCM88xx: high-density fabric and routing
For 100G–400G platforms, the BCM88650B, BCM88750B, BCM88795C and BCM88829C families provide higher buffer depth, deep traffic management and fabric expansion ports. Carrier edge routers and metro platforms use these parts. The BCM56960B and BCM56980B sit between the two families, serving demanding data-center aggregation.
What to check before buying
- Suffix codes matter: the KFSBG/KFSBLG suffix indicates package, temperature and lead finish. Confirm exact marking with your supplier.
- Lifecycle status: some older BCM563xx/564xx series are discontinued — check stock availability early in the design cycle.
- Software support: Broadcom SDK / SONiC support differs per generation; match your software plan to the silicon.
ICseekers support for switch designs
We supply the full BCM56/88 families plus companion PHYs, memory and power parts — enough to fill an entire switch BOM from one supplier. Contact Eric on WhatsApp +86 18657466579 with your requirement list.
