Diodes Incorporated PI2USB3212ZHE

Overview

PI2USB3212ZHE from Pericom Semiconductor is a 5.0 Gbps, 2-channel, bi-directional USB 3.0-compatible 2:1 differential multiplexer/demultiplexer switch with -3 dB bandwidth of 4.1 GHz, 6 ps max bit-to-bit skew, and 1.8 dB insertion loss at 2.5 GHz; used for source selection in high-speed serial interconnects such as USB 3.0 host/device switching.

For engineers reviewing the PI2USB3212ZHE datasheet, PI2USB3212ZHE pinout, PI2USB3212ZHE application, or PI2USB3212ZHE equivalent, key selection criteria include differential channel isolation (-41 dB crosstalk), off-isolation (-22 dB), VDD operating range (1.5 V or 1.8 V ±10%), ESD tolerance (2 kV HBM), and TQFN-28 package compatibility with high-density PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The PI2USB3212ZHE implements a single-pole double-throw (SPDT) analog switch architecture for differential signaling, supporting bidirectional 5.0 Gbps data flow across two independent differential pairs (A/B and A/C paths). Its SEL-controlled path selection operates with propagation delay of 55–75 ns and enables sub-9 ns enable/disable timing.

Designed for USB 3.0 SuperSpeed compliance, it maintains signal integrity via low group delay variation, matched trace routing support (via symmetric pin layout), and DC-coupled operation with common-mode voltage ranges spanning 0 V to 1.8 V depending on VDD and input swing conditions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 28-contact Very Thin Quad Flat No-Lead (TQFN-ZH), 3.5 mm × 5.5 mm, 0.5 mm pitch, exposed thermal pad.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-speed differential mux applications.

Compared with TS3USB30E and MAX4989ETE+, the PI2USB3212ZHE uniquely delivers dual-path (B/C) support in a single 28-pin TQFN, enabling true 2-source-to-1-receiver or 1-source-to-2-receiver configurations without external logic or additional mux stages.

Availability

PI2USB3212ZHE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for USB 3.0 docking stations, high-speed test instrumentation, and PCIe 2.0 embedded interconnects requiring stable component supply and long-term production availability.

Supply support for PI2USB3212ZHE 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

Pericom Semiconductor was a fabless provider of high-speed signal integrity solutions, acquired by Diodes Incorporated in 2016; known for USB, PCI Express, and clock management ICs targeting enterprise and communications infrastructure.

The PI2USB3212 belongs to Pericom's high-speed analog switch product line, engineered specifically for USB 3.0, XAUI, and InfiniBand interconnect consolidation in space- and signal-integrity-constrained systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum supported data rate for PI2USB3212ZHE?

The PI2USB3212ZHE supports 5.0 Gbps data rates, validated by its 4.1 GHz -3 dB bandwidth and 1.8 dB insertion loss at 2.5 GHz. It meets USB 3.0 SuperSpeed requirements with measured bit-to-bit skew ≤6 ps and channel-to-channel skew ≤15 ps, ensuring reliable eye opening at the receiver under worst-case channel loss conditions.

Can PI2USB3212ZHE operate with 1.5 V and 1.8 V supplies simultaneously?

No - all VDD pins must be connected to the same supply rail, either 1.5 V ±10% or 1.8 V ±10%. The device does not support mixed-supply operation. Input thresholds scale with VDD (VIH = 0.65×VDD, VIL = 0.35×VDD), so SEL logic levels must match the selected VDD.

Is the exposed thermal pad on the TQFN-28 package required to be soldered?

Yes - the exposed pad (pin 28) must be soldered to a solid thermal land on the PCB for electrical grounding, thermal dissipation, and mechanical stability. Pericom's mechanical drawing PD-2034 specifies minimum solder paste coverage ≥90% and recommends connecting the pad to internal ground planes via ≥4 thermal vias.

Does PI2USB3212ZHE require external termination resistors?

No - the device is designed for use with 50 Ω differential PCB traces and does not integrate on-die termination. External 50 Ω terminations should be placed at the receiver end only; the switch itself presents near-50 Ω characteristic impedance across its differential paths when enabled.