Diodes Incorporated PI3EQX12904EZHEX

Overview

PI3EQX12904EZHEX from Diodes Incorporated is a 4-channel, 8 Gbps linear ReDriver supporting both PCIe 3.0 (8 Gbps) and SATA3 (6 Gbps) protocols in a single device, featuring pin-adjustable equalization, linear swing, and flat gain, with 100 Ω differential CML I/Os and support for Modern Standby (L1.2) on notebook, server motherboard, and JBOD storage platforms.

For engineers reviewing the PI3EQX12904EZHEX datasheet, PI3EQX12904EZHEX pinout, PI3EQX12904EZHEX application, or PI3EQX12904EZHEX equivalent, key selection criteria include dual-protocol transparency, adaptive power management (auto receiver detection + L1.2), differential signal integrity over extended traces/cables, and TQFN-42 package compatibility with high-density M.2/SATA Express layouts.

Technical Context

The PI3EQX12904EZHEX implements four independent linear ReDriver channels, each with fully differential CML input/output interfaces and programmable analog equalization to compensate for channel loss up to 20 dB at 4 GHz. It operates transparently during PCIe link training and SATA OOB signaling without protocol layer intervention.

Its adaptive power architecture enables automatic entry into low-power mode when input signal amplitude falls below threshold, and supports L1.2 substate via hardware pin control - critical for Modern Standby compliance in Windows-based systems requiring <5 mW idle power per lane.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

PI3EQX12904EZHEX is housed in a 42-contact Very Thin Quad Flat No-Lead (TQFN) package, 3.5 mm × 6.0 mm × 0.55 mm, with wettable flank leads for automated optical inspection (AOI). Pin assignment follows Diodes Inc. standard layout for PCIe/SATA ReDrivers with dedicated VDD, GND, EQ, SWING, FGAIN, and MODE control pins per channel pair.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with PI3EQX12902AZHEX and DS100DF410SQE, the PI3EQX12904EZHEX uniquely balances zero-latency transparency, pin-programmable analog tuning, and hardware L1.2 support - making it optimal for consumer and industrial platforms where firmware simplicity, low power, and dual-protocol flexibility are prioritized over long-reach retiming.

Availability

PI3EQX12904EZHEX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook PC, server motherboard, and JBOD storage applications requiring stable component supply, RoHS 3-compliant packaging, and production-ready signal integrity enhancement for PCIe 3.0/SATA3 interconnects.

Supply support for PI3EQX12904EZHEX 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 analog ICs, headquartered in Plano, Texas, with design centers across Asia and manufacturing in Taiwan, China, and Malaysia.

The PI3EQX series targets high-speed serial interface signal conditioning for client and enterprise computing platforms, specifically addressing the dual-protocol, low-power, and small-form-factor demands of modern M.2, SATA Express, and server backplane architectures.

FAQ

Does PI3EQX12904EZHEX require configuration via I²C or other serial interface?

No. The device uses resistor-programmable pins (EQ, SWING, FGAIN, MODE) for all configuration - no firmware, no I²C bus, and no initialization sequence required. This ensures immediate operation on power-up and eliminates dependency on host processor boot code or driver support.

Can PI3EQX12904EZHEX be used in automotive applications?

Not without qualification. While the device operates across –40 °C to +85 °C, it is not AEC-Q100 qualified, lacks PPAP documentation, and is not manufactured in IATF 16949-certified facilities. Diodes Incorporated explicitly states automotive use requires direct engagement with their sales team for qualified alternatives.

What is the maximum supported trace length for PCIe 3.0 signals using this ReDriver?

With 10 dB of programmable equalization, the device restores signal integrity on FR4 traces up to 25 cm (≈10 inches) at 8 Gbps, assuming standard 5-mil trace width, 5-mil spacing, and 4-layer stackup. Performance depends on actual channel loss - measured eye opening must exceed 30% vertical opening at receiver input.

How does the auto receiver detection feature reduce power consumption?

Each channel monitors input differential amplitude; when signal drops below –12 dBV for >100 µs, the channel enters low-power mode, reducing supply current from 25 mA to <1.5 mA. This occurs independently per channel, enabling granular power gating in multi-lane systems with asymmetric traffic patterns.