PCIe Gen-3 switches handle up to 96 lanes

The PEX8796, PEX8780, and PEX8764 PCI Express Gen 3 (8-Gtransfers/s/lane) switch ICs feature a super-fast, reliable interconnect and packet cut-through with a maximum latency of 150 ns (in a x16-to-x16 configuration). The chips provide 96 lanes/24 ports, 80 lanes/20 ports, or 64 lanes/16 ports, respectively.

The ICs supports software control of the SerDes outputs for optimization of power and signal strength. The devices are backward compatible to PCIe Gen-1.1 and support auto-negotiation, lane reversal, polarity reversal, and hot plug capability. Typical power for the PEX8796 is only 15.7 W. (from $150 to $250 ea/volume qty – samples Q4, production Q1.)

by Jim Harrison

PLX Technology , Sunnyvale , CA
Information 408-774-9060
www.plxtech.com