Combo redriver from Diodes complies with multiple protocols

Diodes has announced the PI3EQX12904A, a PCIe 3.0 and SATA3 re-driver with linear equalisation that supports PCIe 3.0 up to 8Gbit/s and SATA3 up to 6Gbit/s.

It features four 100Ω differential current-mode logic (CML) data signals and is transparent to link training.

To reducing inter-symbol interference, receiver equalisation is pin-adjustable, as is output linear swing (to 1Vmax) and flat gain.

Applications are expected, for example, between a protocol ASIC and switch fabric, over cables, or extending signals across wide PCBs.

“The integrated equalisation circuitry provides flexibility with signal integrity of the signal before and after the re-river. PI3EQX12904A is designed to support processor chipsets with dual protocol I/O pins, supporting connectors, such as mSATA, M.2 and SATAe, that can provide control signals,” said Diodes, adding that another potential use is dual lane applications requiring low power and small packages, such as in docking stations. Laptops, notebooks and industrial PC are all targets.

To save power, in slumber mode the inputs are monitored for any activity to switch the corresponding channel to active mode. There is also an automatic low power mode. Sadly, as the data sheet is not publicly available, there are no figures to back-up these power claims. A one-page product brief is available.