Diodes Incorporated PI2EQX6811ZDE

Overview

PI2EQX6811ZDE from Diodes Incorporated (acquired Pericom) is a 1-port, 1.5V SATA Gen 3i and SAS2 6Gbps ReDriver™ with I²C programmable equalization (0–18 dB), pre-emphasis (0–6 dB), and output swing (1200 mV). It features dual 100Ω differential CML I/O pairs, input signal level detection per channel, OOB support, and automatic HDD rate detection for dynamic output tuning in storage interconnects.

For engineers reviewing the PI2EQX6811ZDE datasheet, PI2EQX6811ZDE pinout, PI2EQX6811ZDE application, or PI2EQX6811ZDE equivalent, key selection criteria include per-channel squelch behavior, termination detect via I²C, auto-slumber mode (22.5 mW), and 15 µW power-down standby - critical for low-power SAS/SATA backplane extension and hot-plug storage systems.

Technical Context

The PI2EQX6811ZDE implements two independent limiting amplifier channels, each with configurable receiver equalization and transmitter pre-emphasis to compensate for channel loss up to 20 dB at 3 GHz. Its CML I/O architecture supports AC-coupled 100Ω differential signaling between protocol ASICs and HDDs/hosts across backplanes or flex cables.

Signal integrity management includes per-channel input signal detection (Vth− threshold), output squelch to common-mode voltage when input falls below threshold, and termination detect (TDETEN) asserted via I²C to indicate load presence - enabling host-controlled power state transitions including auto-slumber and 15 µW standby.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 20-pin TQFN (4 mm × 4 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), exposed thermal pad, RoHS-compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar ReDriver applications.

Compared with TI TUSB542 and MAX9113, the PI2EQX6811ZDE uniquely combines SAS/SATA protocol transparency, per-channel squelch, I²C-based real-time tuning, and sub-mW HDD-unplugged operation - making it the only option validated for enterprise hot-swap storage backplanes requiring dynamic power and signal integrity adaptation.

Availability

PI2EQX6811ZDE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for enterprise storage backplanes, SAS hot-swap drive bays, and embedded RAID modules requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.

Supply support for PI2EQX6811ZDE includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Diodes Incorporated acquired Pericom in 2017 and integrates its high-speed signal integrity portfolio into its interface solutions business unit.

The PI2EQX6811ZDE belongs to Pericom's ReDriver™ family, engineered specifically for 6 Gbps storage interconnects requiring adaptive equalization, low-power standby, and hot-plug-aware power management in data center and enterprise storage systems.

FAQ

What is the function of the TDETEN pin on PI2EQX6811ZDE?

The TDETEN pin enables internal termination detection circuitry. When asserted high, it allows the device to sense whether a load (e.g., HDD or host) is connected via impedance measurement. The result is reported through an I²C status register, enabling host firmware to trigger power state transitions such as auto-slumber or full shutdown - critical for energy-efficient hot-swap drive bays.

Does PI2EQX6811ZDE support SATA Gen 3i and SAS2 simultaneously on the same port?

No - the PI2EQX6811ZDE is a 1-port device with two differential lanes (xI+/xI− and xO+/xO−) operating as a single bidirectional channel. It supports either SATA Gen 3i or SAS2 protocol signaling on that channel, with automatic rate detection determining output swing and emphasis settings. It does not multiplex or bridge between protocols.

How does the auto-slumber mode reduce power consumption?

Auto-slumber activates when no valid input signal is detected on either lane for a defined timeout period. The device reduces bias currents in the limiting amplifiers and shuts down non-essential logic, lowering total power from 102 mW to 22.5 mW typical. This mode maintains I²C accessibility and fast wake-up (<1 µs), unlike full power-down (15 µW), which disables all interfaces until EN is reasserted.

Can PI2EQX6811ZDE be used without I²C configuration?

Yes - EQ_x and EM_x pin-straps provide fixed equalization and pre-emphasis values at power-up. These settings serve as factory-programmed defaults when I²C is unused. All other functions - including signal detect, squelch, termination detect, and power modes - remain fully operational without I²C, enabling simple drop-in deployment in cost-sensitive or firmware-constrained designs.