Diodes Incorporated PI3EQX16904GLZHEX

Overview

PI3EQX16904GLZHEX from Diodes Incorporated is a 16 Gbps, 4-channel linear ReDriver IC designed for high-speed serial link signal integrity restoration in PCIe 4.0, SAS-3, InfiniBand FDR, FC-16, and XAUI systems. It features programmable 3-bit linear equalization, 2-bit output swing control, 2-bit flat gain control, and operates from a single 3.3 V ±0.3 V supply across –40°C to +85°C.

For engineers reviewing the PI3EQX16904GLZHEX datasheet, PI3EQX16904GLZHEX pinout, PI3EQX16904GLZHEX application, or PI3EQX16904GLZHEX equivalent, key selection criteria include per-channel independent equalization/swing/gain configuration, CML I/O compatibility (100 Ω differential), transparency to link training and idle states, and dual programming via pin strap or I²C with 3-bit address support.

Technical Context

The PI3EQX16904GLZHEX implements four independent, rate-agnostic linear ReDriver channels-each with cascaded equalizer and linear amplifier stages-to compensate for frequency-dependent loss without introducing jitter multiplication. Its architecture supports transparent pass-through of embedded clock and protocol-specific training sequences (e.g., PCIe LTSSM, SAS INIT).

Equalization is implemented as a continuous-time linear filter with three selectable boost levels (0 dB, 6 dB, 12 dB at Nyquist), while output swing and flat gain are independently adjustable per channel via either hardware strapping or I²C register writes, enabling optimization for varying trace lengths and interconnect losses.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 42-contact Thin Quad Flat No-Lead (TQFN), 9 mm × 3.5 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 linear ReDriver applications.

Compared with DS125DF410 and MAX96752, the PI3EQX16904GLZHEX uniquely delivers protocol-transparent, zero-latency linear redriving at 16 Gbps with per-channel configurability-making it optimal for PCIe 4.0 server backplanes and SAS-3 storage where latency, link stability, and independent channel tuning are essential.

Availability

PI3EQX16904GLZHEX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for PCIe 4.0 server backplanes, SAS-3 enterprise storage arrays, and InfiniBand FDR switch fabrics requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and RoHS 3-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for PI3EQX16904GLZHEX 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 signal integrity, power management, and protection solutions for data infrastructure and industrial applications.

The PI3EQX ReDriver product line targets high-speed serial interconnects in servers, storage, and networking equipment-designed to extend reach and improve eye margin without protocol dependency or added latency.

FAQ

Does PI3EQX16904GLZHEX require external reference clock or PLL configuration?

No. The PI3EQX16904GLZHEX is a linear ReDriver-not a retimer-so it contains no PLL, CDR, or reference clock circuitry. It operates transparently on incoming data, preserving original timing and eliminating the need for clock synthesis or lock acquisition. This enables immediate signal restoration upon power-up with zero protocol-aware initialization delay.

Can EQ, swing, and flat gain settings be changed dynamically during live link operation?

Yes. All three parameters are controllable in real time via the I²C interface without disrupting data flow or requiring a reset. The device maintains bit transparency during register updates, allowing adaptive tuning in response to thermal drift or changing channel conditions-critical for field-deployed storage and networking systems.

What is the maximum supported trace length improvement using PI3EQX16904GLZHEX at 16 Gbps?

At 16 Gbps, the PI3EQX16904GLZHEX extends usable FR4 trace length by up to 35 inches (89 cm) when configured with 12 dB equalization and optimized swing/gain-based on Diodes' validated eye diagram measurements showing >30% eye height and >0.3 UI horizontal opening after 25 dB channel loss.

Is PI3EQX16904GLZHEX compatible with PCIe 5.0 physical layer?

No. The PI3EQX16904GLZHEX is specified up to 16 Gbps (PCIe 4.0), with bandwidth and EQ response optimized for that range. PCIe 5.0 (32 GT/s) requires higher-frequency equalization and lower intrinsic jitter; Diodes offers the PI3EQX2201 series for PCIe 5.0 applications.