SERDES Transceivers Hit 6.25 And 10 Gbits/s

Backplane serializer/deserializer (SERDES) transceivers offering 6.25- and 10-Gbit/s data-transfer rates now come from PMC-Sierra Inc. and Accelerant Networks Inc., respectively. PMC's PM8359 QuadPHY 6G chip complies with the Optical Internetworking Forum's 6-Gbit/s long-reach specification. It multiplexes and demultiplexes eight 3.125-Gbit/s serial links into four 6.25-Gbit/s links and employs an adaptive decision feedback equalization scheme to ensure robust link operation. Samples cost $250 each. Using PAM4 multilevel signaling to deliver data at 10 Gbits/s or decision feedback equalization to achieve 5-Gbit/s data rates, Accelerant's AN6000 low-power SERDES consumes just 870 mW per 40-Gbit/s total payload. The AN6420 packs four backplane interface cores, and the AN6620 is a quad 6.25-Gbit/s transceiver. Pricing is $80 in volume.