The XFI serdes core offers single-lane operation up to 11.1Gbit/s to allow for forward error correction.
New from LSI Logic, the XFI serdes core offers single-lane operation up to 11.1Gbit/s to allow for forward error correction. The XFI serdes core enables an SoC device to drive an XFP optical module, resulting in compact, cost-effective designs for 10Gbit/s packet processing a need driven by the explosion of packet-based traffic in network systems. Common to Sonet/SDH and Ethernet, 10Gbit/s is widely regarded as a ‘convergence rate’ for carrying packet data, packet voice, video, storage and traditional time division multiplexing traffic.

The LSI industry leading XFI serdes is optimised for high performance, low power consumption and minimum size.

The parallel datapath widths are selectable for 32 or 64bit for flexible integration, allowing users to trade-off cost versus power consumption.

The XFI serdes includes programmable receive equalisation and adjustable transmit output swings.

To enable thorough test and channel optimisation, the serdes includes integrated BIST (built-in self test) and an adjustable receiver sample point for BER (bit error rate) margin testing.

These features enable significant cost reduction and exemplify the commitment LSI places on Design for Manufacturability (DFM).

For the first use of XFI serdes technology, LSI partnered with Ample Communications to develop the Redhawk two-port 10GE MAC.

‘Ample Communications leveraged the leading serdes technology from LSI to deliver its two port 10 gigabit Ethernet MAC’, said Marek Tlalka, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Ample Communications.

‘Our collaboration with LSI resulted in a standard product that offers system suppliers a best-in-class line rate and an oversubscribed 10 GE solution that dramatically reduces power, space and system cost’.

‘We partner with fast moving companies like Ample to develop innovative products’, said Jeff Richardson, Executive Vice President, Custom Solutions Group, LSI Logic.

‘The right-first-time Redhawk product showcases both our complex SoC expertise and Ample’s advanced Ethernet expertise’.