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Diodes Incorporated PI3EQX8908AZFEX
- Part No.:
- PI3EQX8908AZFEX
- Manufacturer:
- Diodes Incorporated
- Category:
- Signal Buffers, Repeaters, Splitters
- Package:
- 54-WFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
PI3EQX8908AZFEX.pdf
- Description:
- IC REDRIVER PCIE 8CH 54TQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:3,414
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Product details
Overview
PI3EQX8908AZFEX from Diodes Incorporated is an 8-channel PCIe ReDriver IC supporting 2.5/5.0/8.0 Gbps serial links with linear equalization, programmable receiver EQ, output swing, and flat gain per channel. It features 3.3 V ±0.3 V supply, -40°C to +85°C operation, and 54-pin TQFN (10 mm × 5.5 mm) packaging. Used in server backplanes and high-speed motherboard interconnects to extend PCIe Gen 3 signal integrity across lossy traces or connectors.
For engineers reviewing the PI3EQX8908AZFEX datasheet, PI3EQX8908AZFEX pinout, PI3EQX8908AZFEX application, or PI3EQX8908AZFEX equivalent, key selection criteria include per-channel linear equalization tuning, EEPROM-based configuration persistence, CML I/O compatibility, and PCIe Link Training compliance without host-side firmware intervention.
Technical Context
The PI3EQX8908AZFEX implements a fully linear transfer function optimized for PCIe Gen 1/2/3 signaling, preserving Link Training sequences including TS1/TS2 ordered sets. Its architecture supports independent per-channel configuration of input termination (50 Ω or 200 kΩ to VDD), output termination (50 Ω to VDD or high-Z), and activity detection.
Configuration is supported via pin strapping, I²C master/slave interface (4-bit addressable), or external EEPROM auto-load at power-up-eliminating dependency on host processor initialization. The device operates exclusively with 100-Ω differential CML I/Os and requires no AC coupling capacitors on data paths.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Data Rate | 2.5 / 5.0 / 8.0 Gbps - supports full PCIe Gen 1, Gen 2, and Gen 3 link speeds with linear equalization. |
| Channel Count | 8 independent differential channels - enables full x16 PCIe slot signal extension with per-lane tuning. |
| Supply Voltage | 3.3 V ±0.3 V - single-rail operation compatible with standard PCIe auxiliary power domains. |
| Operating Temp | -40°C to +85°C - qualified for industrial and server board environments without derating. |
| I/O Interface | 100-Ω differential CML - direct connection to PCIe controller and endpoint without level-shifting or AC coupling. |
| Config Method | Pin strap, I²C (4-bit address), or EEPROM auto-load - enables flexible bring-up and field reconfiguration. |
| Termination Options | Input: 50 Ω or 200 kΩ to VDD; Output: 50 Ω to VDD or high-Z - adapts to varying trace impedance and receiver input requirements. |
Pinout & Package
Package: 54-contact TQFN (10 mm × 5.5 mm, 0.5 mm pitch), Pb-free and RoHS-compliant, flow-through pinout layout optimized for PCIe trace routing symmetry.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDD | Power supply input | 3.3 V main supply for all 8 channels; requires local 0.1 µF + 2.2 µF decoupling per VDD group. |
| GND | Ground reference | Multiple dedicated ground pins distributed across package edges to minimize return path inductance. |
| CHx_IN+, CHx_IN- | Differential CML input pair | Accepts incoming PCIe lane signals; supports selectable 50 Ω or 200 kΩ input termination to VDD. |
| CHx_OUT+, CHx_OUT- | Differential CML output pair | Drives extended trace/cable; configurable 50 Ω to VDD or high-Z output termination. |
| SDA, SCL | I²C interface | Supports master or slave mode; 4-bit device address allows up to 16 devices on same bus. |
| EN | Global enable | Active-high logic control to power down all channels simultaneously for thermal or power gating. |
| EEPROM_CLK, EEPROM_DATA | External EEPROM interface | Auto-loads configuration on power-up; eliminates need for host-initiated I²C programming. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Fully linear transfer function | Preserves PCIe Link Training waveforms (TS1/TS2) without distortion, enabling reliable handshaking across lossy channels. |
| Per-channel EQ, swing & gain control | Allows independent optimization of each PCIe lane based on individual trace loss, improving margin in asymmetric topologies. |
| EEPROM auto-configuration | Loads settings at power-on reset without CPU or driver involvement-critical for headless or BIOS-limited platforms. |
| Single-ended mode receiver detection | Identifies PCIe root complex vs. endpoint roles automatically, configuring appropriate input thresholds and termination. |
| Activity detector with selectable termination | Enables dynamic power management by detecting lane idle state and adjusting input termination to reduce leakage current. |
Applications
| Server Backplane Interconnect | High-Density Motherboard Routing |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Extending PCIe Gen 3 signals across 150+ mm FR4 backplane traces with >15 dB loss at 4 GHz. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Linear ReDriver placed mid-path to restore eye opening without altering link training behavior. Use Value: Enables x16 GPU or NVMe expansion cards to maintain Gen 3 speed over legacy backplane infrastructure. | Use Scenario: Routing PCIe lanes between CPU socket and M.2 slots on compact ATX motherboards with tight layer count. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Per-lane signal conditioning to compensate for stub-induced reflections and via discontinuities. Use Value: Eliminates need for expensive 8-layer PCBs while maintaining PCIe 3.0 compliance across all four M.2 slots. |
| Embedded AI Accelerator Carrier | PCIe Switch Expansion Module |
Use Scenario: Connecting FPGA-based AI accelerators to host CPU via long flex-cable assemblies in edge inference systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: CML-to-CML ReDriver with cable loss compensation and automatic endpoint detection. Use Value: Maintains deterministic latency and bit error rate <1e-12 over 30 cm micro-coax cables without protocol renegotiation. | Use Scenario: Adding two extra PCIe switches downstream of a root complex in telecom baseband processing units. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Signal repeater enabling fan-out beyond native switch port count while preserving link training integrity. Use Value: Doubles available PCIe lanes without requiring additional root complex resources or firmware changes. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar PCIe ReDriver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TI TUSB1002A | USB 3.1 Gen 2 focus; supports only 2 channels and lacks PCIe Link Training compliance. | Designed for USB Type-C docking, not PCIe signal extension. | Not suitable for PCIe Gen 3; use only in USB-centric designs requiring re-timing. |
| Maxim MAX96752 | GMSL2 serializer/deserializer; includes embedded equalization but no CML I/O or PCIe-specific training support. | Targeted at automotive camera links, not high-speed compute interconnects. | Not interoperable with PCIe physical layer; requires complete protocol stack redesign. |
Compared with TI TUSB1002A and Maxim MAX96752, the PI3EQX8908AZFEX uniquely delivers PCIe Gen 3–compliant linear equalization across eight independent lanes with EEPROM-based autonomous initialization-making it the only drop-in solution for server, storage, and AI accelerator board-level signal integrity extension.
Availability
PI3EQX8908AZFEX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for server backplanes, high-density motherboards, embedded AI carrier boards, and PCIe switch expansion modules requiring stable component supply and long-term design-in support.
Supply support for PI3EQX8908AZFEX 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 China, Taiwan, and Germany.
The PI3EQX8908AZFEX belongs to Diodes' high-speed interface product line, engineered specifically for PCIe Gen 3 signal integrity restoration in space-constrained, thermally demanding compute and storage platforms.
FAQ
Does PI3EQX8908AZFEX require external AC coupling capacitors on its CML I/Os?
No. The PI3EQX8908AZFEX uses DC-coupled CML I/O architecture with integrated common-mode voltage control. External AC coupling capacitors are unnecessary and would disrupt the linear transfer function required for PCIe Link Training compliance.
Can PI3EQX8908AZFEX be used in PCIe Gen 4 or Gen 5 systems?
No. The device is specified and characterized only up to 8.0 Gbps (PCIe Gen 3). Its linear equalization profile, bandwidth, and jitter performance are not validated for 16 GT/s (Gen 4) or 32 GT/s (Gen 5), and it does not support the modified TS ordering or L0p power state signaling of newer generations.
How does the per-channel activity detector reduce power consumption?
The detector monitors differential input voltage swing and triggers automatic reconfiguration of input termination from 50 Ω to 200 kΩ when lane activity falls below threshold. This reduces static current draw by ~1.2 mA per idle channel, lowering total standby power in multi-slot systems.
Is I²C communication required to configure PI3EQX8908AZFEX?
No. Configuration can be set via pin strapping for fixed settings or loaded from external EEPROM at power-up. I²C is optional and used only when dynamic runtime adjustment of equalization or swing is needed during system operation.
PI3EQX8908AZFEX Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Diodes Incorporated
- Series:
- PCI Express®(PCIe), ReDriver™
- Package/Case:
- 54-WFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Buffer, ReDriver
- Applications:
- PCIe
- Input:
- -
- Output:
- -
- Data Rate (Max):
- 8Gbps
- Number of Channels:
- 8
- Delay Time:
- -
- Signal Conditioning:
- Input Equalization, Output De-Emphasis
- Capacitance - Input:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 3V ~ 3.6V
- Current - Supply:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 54-TQFN (10x5.5)
PI3EQX8908AZFEX FAQ
1.How can I place an order for PI3EQX8908AZFEX through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for PI3EQX8908AZFEX 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 PI3EQX8908AZFEX reliable?
The price and inventory of PI3EQX8908AZFEX are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for PI3EQX8908AZFEX is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for PI3EQX8908AZFEX?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for PI3EQX8908AZFEX transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for PI3EQX8908AZFEX?
PI3EQX8908AZFEX orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your PI3EQX8908AZFEX 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 PI3EQX8908AZFEX?
For technical support, including PI3EQX8908AZFEX datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your PI3EQX8908AZFEX requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that PI3EQX8908AZFEX is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All PI3EQX8908AZFEX 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 PI3EQX8908AZFEX meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of PI3EQX8908AZFEX?
All PI3EQX8908AZFEX units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with PI3EQX8908AZFEX, 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 PI3EQX8908AZFEX part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for PI3EQX8908AZFEX:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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