Why does add IC add IC NC7WV16 between IMX8 mini Enthernet ENET_RX[0:3] and AR8031

[wangchqin]

Why does add IC add IC NC7WV16 between IMX8 mini Enthernet ENET_RX[0:3] and AR8031  , if I want  change AR8031 to  RTL 8211E  ,  if the  IC NC7WV16 is need ？

[joanxie]

refer to the schematic,

Drivers are included in the receive path due to long signal paths
and board-to-board connector. Adopters should place the PHY and
processor on the same board, and eliminate the drivers. Refer to
Atheros documentation for additional guidance

[wangchqin]

if I use another PHY  as RTL8211F （with normal  driver） ,  and let  the MAC and PHY  in one board without B to B connector ，  can I  omit   IC NC7WV16 ?

[joanxie]

yes you can omit it