Diodes Incorporated PI3EQX16812ZLDEX

Overview

PI3EQX16812ZLDEX from Diodes Incorporated is a 16Gbps, 4-channel PCIe 4.0-compliant 1:2 DeMux ReDriver in a 40-pin 3mm × 6mm TQFN (ZLD) package. It provides programmable linear equalization, output swing, and flat gain per channel, supports 100Ω differential CML I/Os, operates from 3.3V, and functions across –40°C to +85°C for server backplane signal integrity extension.

For engineers reviewing the PI3EQX16812ZLDEX datasheet, PI3EQX16812ZLDEX pinout, PI3EQX16812ZLDEX application, or PI3EQX16812ZLDEX equivalent, key selection criteria include PCIe 4.0 compliance, per-channel independent configuration via I²C or pin strap, automatic receiver detect, transparent link training behavior, and low-power adaptive power management for high-density interconnects.

Technical Context

The PI3EQX16812ZLDEX implements four fully independent serial channels with linear equalization circuitry before each receiver stage to compensate for frequency-dependent loss in PCB traces, cables, or connectors. Each channel features configurable input equalization, output swing, and flat gain-set either by hardware pin strapping or I²C register writes using one of eight selectable slave addresses.

It operates transparently to PCIe 4.0 link training sequences and supports rate- and coding-agnostic operation across NRZ signaling. The device uses 100Ω differential CML I/Os compatible with standard PCIe 4.0 PHY interfaces and includes per-channel low-level input detection with output squelch to suppress noise during idle or loss-of-signal conditions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: ZLD40 - 40-pin, 3mm × 6mm, 0.4mm pitch TQFN with exposed thermal pad (RoHS-compliant, lead-free, halogen-free).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar PCIe 4.0 DeMux ReDriver applications.

Compared with TI TUSB1042IRNQT and MAX96752GTJ+, the PI3EQX16812ZLDEX offers lower latency, zero protocol dependency, and true 1:2 DeMux flexibility - making it optimal for PCIe 4.0 signal extension where transparency, power efficiency, and per-channel tuning are critical.

Availability

PI3EQX16812ZLDEX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for enterprise server backplanes, high-density workstation motherboards, AI accelerator carrier boards, and PCIe 4.0 storage expansion modules requiring stable component supply and long-term design-in support.

Supply support for PI3EQX16812ZLDEX 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 and manufacturing operations across Asia and the US.

The PI3EQX16812ZLDEX belongs to Diodes' ReDriver™ product line, engineered specifically for high-speed serial link signal integrity restoration in PCIe 4.0, USB 3.2, and SATA applications without altering protocol timing or data content.

FAQ

Does PI3EQX16812ZLDEX require external reference clocks or PLLs?

No. The PI3EQX16812ZLDEX is a linear ReDriver, not a retimer - it does not recover or regenerate clocks. It operates transparently on incoming data streams without needing reference clocks, PLLs, or any clock synchronization circuitry. Its equalization and drive stages function entirely in the analog domain.

Can PI3EQX16812ZLDEX be used in PCIe 5.0 systems?

No. The PI3EQX16812ZLDEX is specified and validated only for PCIe 4.0 (16 Gbps). Its equalization bandwidth, jitter transfer characteristics, and eye opening meet PCIe 4.0 electrical requirements but do not satisfy PCIe 5.0 (32 Gbps) specifications such as tighter jitter limits or higher-frequency loss compensation.

Is thermal pad soldering required for reliable operation?

Yes. The ZLD40 package includes an exposed thermal pad that must be soldered to a dedicated copper pour on the PCB for thermal conduction. Diodes' datasheet specifies minimum 80% solder coverage and connection to internal ground planes to maintain junction temperature within –40°C to +85°C ambient operating range.

What happens during PCIe hot-plug events?

The device detects loss of input signal via its automatic receiver detect circuitry and activates per-channel squelch, disabling outputs to prevent spurious signaling. Upon re-detection of valid input amplitude, it resumes normal operation within <1 µs - fully transparent to PCIe link training and enumeration sequences.