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Diodes Incorporated PI3EQX1204-CZHEX
- Part No.:
- PI3EQX1204-CZHEX
- Manufacturer:
- Diodes Incorporated
- Category:
- Signal Buffers, Repeaters, Splitters
- Package:
- 42-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
PI3EQX1204-CZHEX.pdf
- Description:
- IC REDRIVER SAS3 12.5GBPS 42TQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:2,992
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Product details
Overview
PI3EQX1204-CZHEX from Diodes Incorporated is a 4-channel, 12.5 Gbps linear ReDriver IC supporting SAS3, 10GbE, SATA Gen3, and XAUI protocols. It provides programmable linear equalization (up to 14.7 dB peaking gain at 6 GHz), independent per-channel output swing (700–1000 mVpp), flat gain control (−3.5 to +2.5 dB), and handles up to 34 dB channel loss across FR4 traces or SAS3 cables. It operates at 3.3 V over −40°C to +85°C in rack server backplane signal integrity applications.
For engineers reviewing the PI3EQX1204-CZHEX datasheet, PI3EQX1204-CZHEX pinout, PI3EQX1204-CZHEX application, or PI3EQX1204-CZHEX equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, I²C and pin-strap configuration details, CML input/output interface behavior, channel isolation (25 dB), and real-world timing values including 0.5 ns latency and sub-8 ns idle transition times.
Technical Context
The PI3EQX1204-CZHEX implements a transparent, rate- and coding-agnostic linear equalization architecture with four independent CML channels. Each channel features configurable EQ boost (16 settings, 3.6–14.7 dB), flat gain (4 settings, −3.5 to +2.5 dB), and output swing (4 settings, 700–1000 mVpp), all selectable via I²C or pin strapping.
It maintains full transparency to link training, OOB signaling, and electrical idle states while delivering 260 mW/channel power dissipation at 700 mVpp output. Input return loss exceeds 11.0 dB (differential, 10 MHz–6 GHz), and channel-to-channel isolation is 25 dB across 100 MHz–6 GHz, ensuring minimal crosstalk in dense high-speed interconnects.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Data Rate | 12.5 Gbps per channel - supports SAS3 (12 Gbps), 10GbE, and XAUI without retiming or protocol awareness. |
| Equalization Peaking Gain | Up to 14.7 dB at 6 GHz - compensates up to 34 dB of channel loss (e.g., 42″ FR4 trace or 10 m SAS3 cable). |
| Output Swing | 700–1000 mVpp - selectable in 100 mV steps via SW[1:0]; enables optimization for receiver sensitivity and jitter margin. |
| Flat Gain Range | −3.5 dB to +2.5 dB - adjusts DC gain to match system-level loss budget without affecting high-frequency EQ response. |
| Latency | 0.5 ns - fixed, deterministic delay ensures timing-critical links (e.g., SAS3) remain within spec. |
| Channel Isolation | 25 dB (100 MHz–6 GHz) - measured per Figure 1; prevents aggressor-to-victim crosstalk in multi-lane backplanes. |
| Power per Channel | 260 mW at 700 mVpp - enables thermal management in 4-channel TQFN packages with exposed pad. |
Pinout & Package
Package: 42-contact, 9 mm × 3.5 mm Very Thin Quad Flat No-Lead (TQFN-ZH) with exposed thermal pad (EP/GND). RoHS-compliant, halogen- and antimony-free.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| A0RX+/A0RX− | CML differential input (Ch A0) | 100 Ω differential input impedance; internal 50 Ω pull-up or ~200 kΩ high-Z when powered down. |
| A0TX+/A0TX− | CML differential output (Ch A0) | 100 Ω differential output impedance; high-Z during PRSNT# = HIGH (cable absent mode). |
| SCL/SDA | I²C bus interface | Standard-mode (100 kHz) I²C control; supports 4-bit address (AD[3:0]) and register-level per-channel programming. |
| PRSNT# | Cable presence detect | Active-low enable: LOW = normal operation; HIGH = low-power mode (input termination → 200 kΩ, outputs → Hi-Z). |
| ENI2C | Control mode select | LOW = pin-strap configuration (SW[1:0], FG[1:0], EQ[3:0]); HIGH = I²C register-based configuration. |
| VCC (×10 pins) | Power supply | 3.3 V ±0.3 V supply; distributed across 10 dedicated pins to minimize IR drop and noise coupling. |
| EP (GND) | Thermal & ground reference | Exposed pad tied to PCB ground plane; critical for thermal dissipation (max PD = 2.1 W) and signal integrity. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Per-channel independent EQ, swing, and flat gain | Enables fine-grained tuning for non-uniform channel losses (e.g., mixed-length traces on server backplanes). |
| Transparent link-layer operation | No impact on SAS3/10GbE link training, OOB signaling, or electrical idle transitions - preserves native protocol behavior. |
| Two configuration modes (pin strap / I²C) | Pin-strapping allows boot-time static setup; I²C enables dynamic runtime reconfiguration without hardware change. |
| Low-latency analog signal path | 0.5 ns fixed latency avoids timing skew accumulation in multi-stage ReDriver chains. |
| High channel isolation (25 dB) | Prevents inter-lane crosstalk in 4-lane SAS3 or 4×10GbE configurations, maintaining BER <10−12. |
Applications
| Rack Server Backplane | JBOF Interconnect |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Extending 12 Gbps SAS3 signals across 42-inch FR4 backplanes between host controller and storage enclosures. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Linear ReDriver placed mid-backplane to restore signal integrity before receiver input; no retiming or protocol interpretation. Use Value: Compensates 34 dB loss while preserving electrical idle timing (TTX-IDLE-TO-DIFF-DATA ≤ 8 ns) required for SAS3 link recovery. |
Use Scenario: Bridging 10GbE signals between switch ASIC and multiple JBOD chassis over copper cables up to 10 meters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: CML-to-CML analog repeater with programmable EQ and swing to adapt to varying cable insertion loss. Use Value: Enables use of cost-effective passive cables by boosting signal amplitude and reducing ISI-induced jitter at 10.3125 Gbps. |
| Enterprise SSD Controller Interface | High-Density Storage Blade |
|
Use Scenario: Driving four independent SATA Gen3 or SAS3 lanes from a multi-port storage controller to NVMe-over-Fabrics expansion modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Per-lane signal conditioner with independent EQ and flat gain to match asymmetric trace lengths on dense PCBs. Use Value: Achieves >11 dB input return loss and 25 dB channel isolation, enabling reliable 6 Gbps operation in thermally constrained blade environments. |
Use Scenario: Signal regeneration in 4×10GbE top-of-rack switch blades where space constraints require ultra-thin TQFN packaging. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-profile, 9 mm × 3.5 mm ReDriver with exposed thermal pad for conduction cooling in air-cooled blade chassis. Use Value: Delivers 260 mW/channel power efficiency and 0.5 ns latency - critical for deterministic packet forwarding in latency-sensitive storage networks. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-speed linear ReDriver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TI DS125DF410 | Retimer (not ReDriver); includes clock data recovery (CDR), higher power (≈450 mW/channel), requires reference clock. | Required for systems needing jitter cleanup or protocol-aware retiming; not transparent to link training. | Select only if CDR functionality is needed; incompatible for pure signal-boosting roles where protocol transparency is mandatory. |
| Maxim MAX9278 | 14 Gbps GMSL2 serializer, not a ReDriver; designed for automotive camera links, not SAS/10GbE protocols. | Targeted at MIPI CSI-2 to GMSL2 bridging; lacks CML I/O, EQ control, or SAS3/10GbE compliance. | Not functionally substitutable; intended for entirely different physical layer and application domain. |
Compared with DS125DF410 and MAX9278, the PI3EQX1204-CZHEX uniquely delivers protocol-transparent linear equalization with zero added jitter, sub-1 ns latency, and pin/I²C configurability - making it the only viable choice for SAS3 backplane extension where link-layer integrity must be preserved.
Availability
PI3EQX1204-CZHEX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for rack server backplanes, JBOF interconnects, and enterprise SSD controller interfaces requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for PI3EQX1204-CZHEX 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 is a global manufacturer of discrete semiconductors and integrated circuits, specializing in high-performance analog, logic, and signal integrity solutions for computing, communications, and industrial markets.
The PI3EQX1204-CZHEX belongs to Diodes' ReDriver™ product line, engineered specifically for high-speed serial link extension in data center infrastructure - emphasizing low-latency analog signal conditioning without protocol interference.
FAQ
What is the maximum supported data rate and protocol compatibility?
The PI3EQX1204-CZHEX supports up to 12.5 Gbps per channel and is explicitly validated for SAS3 (12 Gbps), 10GbE (10.3125 Gbps), SATA Gen3 (6 Gbps), SAS2 (3/6 Gbps), and XAUI (3.125 Gbps). Its linear equalization architecture is rate- and coding-agnostic, requiring no protocol-specific configuration or retiming.
How does PRSNT# affect device operation and power state?
When PRSNT# is HIGH, the device enters low-power mode: inputs switch to ~200 kΩ termination, outputs go high-impedance, and total supply current drops to 14.4 mW. When LOW, full functionality activates - including CML I/O biasing, equalization, and output drive - with typical supply current of 360 mA at full operation.
Can EQ, flat gain, and output swing be configured independently per channel?
Yes - via I²C registers (Bytes 3–6), each of the four channels (A0–A3) can be individually programmed for EQ boost (4-bit), flat gain (2-bit), and output swing (2-bit). Pin-strapping (EQ[3:0], FG[1:0], SW[1:0]) applies identical settings to all channels simultaneously.
What is the thermal design requirement for continuous operation?
The device uses a 42-pin TQFN package with an exposed thermal pad (EP/GND). For continuous 2.1 W maximum power dissipation, the EP must be soldered to a minimum 200 mm² copper pour on the PCB's inner ground plane, with ≥4 thermal vias (0.3 mm diameter) connecting to internal ground layers to maintain junction temperature ≤125°C.
PI3EQX1204-CZHEX Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Diodes Incorporated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 42-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Buffer, ReDriver
- Applications:
- SAS, SATA
- Input:
- CML
- Output:
- CML
- Data Rate (Max):
- 12.5Gbps
- Number of Channels:
- 4
- Delay Time:
- -
- Signal Conditioning:
- Input Equalization
- Capacitance - Input:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 3.3V
- Current - Supply:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 42-TQFN (9x3.5)
PI3EQX1204-CZHEX FAQ
1.How can I place an order for PI3EQX1204-CZHEX through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for PI3EQX1204-CZHEX on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for PI3EQX1204-CZHEX reliable?
The price and inventory of PI3EQX1204-CZHEX are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for PI3EQX1204-CZHEX is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for PI3EQX1204-CZHEX?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for PI3EQX1204-CZHEX transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for PI3EQX1204-CZHEX?
PI3EQX1204-CZHEX orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your PI3EQX1204-CZHEX order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for PI3EQX1204-CZHEX?
For technical support, including PI3EQX1204-CZHEX datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your PI3EQX1204-CZHEX requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that PI3EQX1204-CZHEX is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All PI3EQX1204-CZHEX products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that PI3EQX1204-CZHEX meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of PI3EQX1204-CZHEX?
All PI3EQX1204-CZHEX units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with PI3EQX1204-CZHEX, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The PI3EQX1204-CZHEX part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for PI3EQX1204-CZHEX:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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