Pericom Introduced Multi-Protocol 6-12Gb/s Linear ReDrivers/Repeaters for PCIe 3.0/SATA3/10GE/SAS2/SAS3 Architectures

Pericom Semiconductor Corporation (part of Diodes Incorporated), announced at the PCI-SIG Developers Conference, multi-protocol Linear ReDrivers/Repeaters to address speeds of up to 12Gb/s and supporting PCIe 3.0, SATA3, 10GbE, SAS2 and SAS3 serial protocols.

The PI3EQX12902 and PI3EQX12908A 6Gb/s to 12 Gb/s Combo Linear ReDrivers/Repeaters consist of  two and eight differential channels respectively, supporting serial protocols for PCIe 3.0, SATA3, SAS2, SAS3 and 10GbE architectures.

These linear ReDrivers offer flow through pinout, low power, and independently programmable channels for transmit flat gain, swing and receive equalizer. Through programming, the channel can be extended for a loss of up to 36dB equating to FR4 PCB trace distances of up to 42-48 inches or standard SAS3 cable of up to a 10 meters distance. The ReDrivers/Repeaters transparently pass link training for serial protocols such as those defined in the PCIe 3.0 specification and SAS3.

“We are pleased to further enhance our leadership position in ReDrivers/Repeaters with our flagship combo linear ReDrivers supporting multiple serial protocols of up to 12Gb/s,” said Kay Annamalai, senior director marketing, Pericom Semiconductor. “Our error-free performance with 36dB channel loss is better than any other ReDriver solution on the market. Our latest offerings can be applied to server/storage platforms with U.2 connectors supporting both PCIe 3.0 SSD technology and SAS3 HDDs.“

Company’s storage solutions include ReDrivers/Repeaters, Application Specific Protocol Signal Switches, Complete Clock and Frequency Control Timing solutions, Level shifters, IO Expanders, and I2C Mux.

Complete server/storage solutions

“As a PCI-SIG member, Pericom has played a valued role in the development of PCIe technology,” said Al Yanes, president and chairman, PCI-SIG. “The company’s support of the PCIe 3.0 architecture helps the PCIe ecosystem grow within an increasing range of platforms.“

The PI3EQX12902B and PI3EQX12908A are available in production quantities.