Serializer/Deserializer IC Addresses Fiber Applications

Aimed at the storage area networking (SAN) market, the PM8356 QuadPHY is a Gigabit Serializer/Deserializer (SerDes) for 1.0625- or 2.125-Gbs multi-port transceivers in Fibre Channel switches. Integrated capabilities include serializer/deserializer, clock recovery, clock synthesis, byte alignment logic, and internal pattern generator/comparator for system test and diagnosis. For mission-critical storage systems, the QuadPHY has a fully redundant architecture to maintain operation and protect high-speed differential links. Signal integrity is provided through programmable pre-emphasis, receive equalization, integrated receive/transmit termination, and capacitive coupling. The IC is fabricated in low-power 0.18-micron CMOS technology. It comes in a 23 x 23 mm thermally-enhanced plastic 324-pin BGA package. Price is $44 in 1,000 piece quantities. PMC-SIERRA INC, Santa Clara, CA. (604) 415-6065.