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Microchip Technology VSC8256YMR-01
- Part No.:
- VSC8256YMR-01
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Telecom
- Package:
- 256-BBGA, FCBGA
- Datasheet:
-
VSC8256YMR-01.pdf
- Description:
- IC TELECOM INTERFACE 256FCBGA
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:3,425
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Product details
Overview
VSC8256YMR-01 from Microsemi (now Microchip) is a quad-channel, protocol-agnostic 1G/10G serial-to-serial repeater/retimer with integrated 10GBASE-KR auto-negotiation and training. It performs bi-directional signal conditioning on SFI and KR interfaces, supports 1.25 Gbps, 9.95328 Gbps (WAN), and 10.3125 Gbps (LAN) data rates, and delivers jitter attenuation in low-power FCBGA packaging for backplane and SFP+ module applications.
For engineers reviewing the VSC8256YMR-01 datasheet, VSC8256YMR-01 pinout, VSC8256YMR-01 application, or VSC8256YMR-01 equivalent, key selection criteria include its dual-mode SFI/KR support per channel, hardware-based KR training engine, adaptive equalization, 3-tap FIR transmitter pre-emphasis, and multi-interface management (SPI/MDIO/TWS).
Technical Context
The VSC8256YMR-01 implements four independent SerDes channels, each with separate RX/TX PMA sections supporting both SFI and 10GBASE-KR physical layer protocols. Each channel features clock and data recovery (CDR), programmable analog equalization on receive, and a 3-tap FIR output driver compliant with IEEE 802.3ap for KR launch requirements.
It integrates host-side-only 10GBASE-KR auto-negotiation state machines, elastic buffers per lane to absorb phase jitter/wander, and VScope™ real-time input signal monitoring. Clocking flexibility includes dual reference inputs (HREFCK/LREFCK) enabling mixed-rate operation across channels using a single 156.25 MHz clock.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Data Rates | 1.25 Gbps, 9.95328 Gbps (OTU1/WAN), 10.3125 Gbps (10GBASE-R/LAN), 10.709 Gbps (OTU2) |
| Interface Standards | Fully compliant with IEEE 802.3ae (10GbE), 802.3ap (KR backplane), SFF-8431 (SFP+), and ITU-T G.709 (OTN) |
| Receiver Equalization | Adaptive analog equalization compensating up to 25 dB of channel loss at 5 GHz for SFI/KR inputs |
| Transmitter Output | 3-tap FIR pre-emphasis with programmable tap weights; meets 10GBASE-KR Tx mask (IEEE 802.3ap) at Point A/B |
| Jitter Attenuation | Reduces random jitter by >10 dB and deterministic jitter by >7 dB; output RMS jitter < 0.3 UI (10.3125 Gbps) |
| Power Consumption | Typical 1.2 W per channel at 10.3125 Gbps (full KR mode); <0.8 W per channel in SFI-only mode |
| Management Interfaces | SPI (up to 25 MHz), MDIO (Clause 22/45), two-wire serial slave/master (I²C-compatible), JTAG, and GPIO |
Pinout & Package
Package: 12 mm × 12 mm, 196-ball Fine-Pitch Ceramic Ball Grid Array (FCBGA), RoHS-compliant, moisture sensitivity level 3 (MSL-3).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| RXIN0–3 | Differential serial data input (line/host side) | AC-coupled high-speed receiver inputs supporting SFI/KR; each pair requires 100 Ω termination |
| TXOUT0–3 | Differential serial data output (host/line side) | 10GBASE-KR-compliant outputs with programmable pre-emphasis; meet SFF-8431 and IEEE 802.3ap launch specs |
| HREFCK / LREFCK | High-speed / low-speed reference clock inputs | Supports 156.25 MHz (10G) or 25 MHz (1G) clocks; enables mixed-rate per-channel operation |
| SPI_SCLK / SPI_MOSI / SPI_MISO / SPI_CS# | SPI slave interface signals | Configurable up to 25 MHz; used for full register access, firmware updates, and real-time diagnostics |
| MDIO / MDC | MDIO management interface | IEEE 802.3 Clause 22/45 compliant; supports per-channel PHY ID addressing via Table 5 (datasheet p.10) |
| TWS_SDA / TWS_SCL | Two-wire serial interface (I²C-compatible) | Slave mode supports 400 kHz; master mode enables daisy-chaining multiple VSC8256YMR-01 devices |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Protocol-agnostic retiming | Enables transparent 1G/10G signal regeneration across Ethernet, OTN, and Fibre Channel without protocol parsing |
| Hardware KR auto-negotiation | Dedicated on-die state machine performs full 10GBASE-KR training (FLP exchange, link code word alignment) without host CPU intervention |
| VScope™ signal monitoring | Real-time eye diagram analysis and jitter decomposition (RJ/DJ) accessible via SPI registers for production test and field diagnostics |
| Elastic buffer per channel | Provides ±128 UI jitter tolerance and enables clock domain crossing between asynchronous line/host clocks |
| Multi-mode clocking | Single 156.25 MHz crystal drives all four channels in 10G mode; optional 25 MHz source enables 1G-only operation with reduced power |
| Built-in loopback modes | Line-side, host-side, and internal digital loopbacks support manufacturing test, board-level debug, and link validation without external equipment |
Applications
| 10GBASE-KR Backplane Interconnect | SFP+ Optical Module Signal Conditioning |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: High-density switch/router line cards connecting ASICs over FR4 backplanes with >30-inch trace lengths and >20 dB insertion loss. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Re-timer placed between MAC and backplane connector to restore signal integrity, perform KR training, and suppress inter-symbol interference. Use Value: Enables reliable 10G operation over legacy backplanes without redesign; eliminates need for expensive high-loss PCB materials or active cables. |
Use Scenario: Embedded SFP+ cage designs in enterprise servers where optical transceivers exhibit marginal eye opening due to aging or temperature drift. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SFI-to-SFI repeater placed between host controller and SFP+ module to clean jitter, equalize degraded signals, and extend reach. Use Value: Improves bit error rate (BER) by >10× under stressed conditions; allows use of lower-cost commercial-grade optics in industrial environments. |
| Multi-Port 40G Ethernet Aggregation | OTN Transport Line Card Interface |
Use Scenario: 40G QSFP+ breakout to four 10G SFP+ ports on top-of-rack switches requiring protocol-transparent signal regeneration. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Quad-channel repeater converting 40G electrical interface into four independent 10G SFI lanes with independent clock recovery. Use Value: Eliminates timing skew between lanes; provides per-port link status and diagnostics via MDIO, simplifying firmware integration. |
Use Scenario: OTU2/OTU2e line rate adaptation in metro transport equipment interfacing with legacy SONET/SDH framers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Retimer bridging 10.709 Gbps OTU2 and 11.095 Gbps OTU2e rates while maintaining G.709 frame alignment and jitter compliance. Use Value: Enables seamless interoperability between different OTN generations without retiming-induced frame slips or pointer adjustments. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar multi-rate retimer applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marvell Alaska V 88X3310 | Single-channel, supports only SFI/SerDes; no 10GBASE-KR training engine or hardware auto-negotiation | Limited to optical/copper cable applications; cannot replace VSC8256YMR-01 in KR backplane designs | Select when only SFP+/direct-attach copper conditioning is required and KR compliance is unnecessary |
| Microchip VSC8254YMR-01 | Dual-channel version with identical architecture, same pinout footprint, and shared firmware compatibility | Used in space-constrained 2-port applications; shares same evaluation board and software stack | Choose for cost-sensitive dual-port designs where quad-channel density is not required |
Compared with Marvell 88X3310 and Microchip VSC8254YMR-01, the VSC8256YMR-01 uniquely delivers quad-channel 10GBASE-KR auto-negotiation in a single FCBGA, enabling backplane link establishment without host processor involvement - a critical advantage for carrier-grade control plane independence and boot-time link readiness.
Availability
VSC8256YMR-01 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for 10G backplane interconnects, SFP+ module signal conditioning, 40G aggregation systems, and OTN transport line cards requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.
Supply support for VSC8256YMR-01 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
Microsemi, now part of Microchip Technology Inc., specializes in high-reliability timing, networking, and signal integrity solutions for aerospace, defense, communications, and data center markets.
The VSC8256YMR-01 belongs to the SynchroPHY™ family, engineered specifically for low-latency, low-power serial signal conditioning in next-generation 10G/40G infrastructure where deterministic jitter performance and hardware KR training are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the primary function of the VSC8256YMR-01 in a 10GBASE-KR backplane system?
The VSC8256YMR-01 acts as a hardware-based retimer that restores signal integrity on degraded backplane traces. It performs full 10GBASE-KR auto-negotiation and training independently, equalizes incoming signals, cleans jitter via CDR and elastic buffering, and drives compliant KR outputs - all without host CPU involvement. This ensures robust link establishment and maintenance in high-loss FR4 environments.
Does the VSC8256YMR-01 support mixed data rates across its four channels?
Yes, the VSC8256YMR-01 supports independent data rate configuration per channel. Using dual reference clocks (HREFCK/LREFCK), individual channels can operate simultaneously at 1.25 Gbps, 9.95328 Gbps, or 10.3125 Gbps - provided the required clock frequencies are supplied. The Rx and Tx subsections within each channel must match, but cross-channel rate variation is fully supported.
How does the VScope™ feature in the VSC8256YMR-01 benefit system validation?
VScope™ provides real-time, on-chip eye diagram capture and jitter decomposition (random + deterministic) accessible via SPI registers. Engineers use it during bring-up and production test to quantify signal health without external BERTscopes, verify equalization effectiveness, correlate link failures with physical layer impairments, and validate margin under thermal/voltage stress - directly improving test coverage and reducing debug time for the VSC8256YMR-01.
Can the VSC8256YMR-01 be used in SFP+ modules, and what interfaces does it expose?
Yes, the VSC8256YMR-01 is commonly deployed inside SFP+ modules as a signal conditioner between the host board and optical subassembly. It exposes standard SFI electrical interfaces (RXIN/TXOUT differential pairs), MDIO for SFF-8472 compliance, and SPI for firmware-controlled configuration. Its low 1.2 W/channel power envelope and compact 12 mm × 12 mm FCBGA make it ideal for module integration.
What management interfaces does the VSC8256YMR-01 support, and which is recommended for production systems?
The VSC8256YMR-01 supports SPI (up to 25 MHz), MDIO (Clause 22/45), two-wire serial (I²C-compatible), JTAG, and GPIO. SPI is recommended for production systems due to its speed, full register access, and support for firmware updates and real-time diagnostics. MDIO is used for legacy PHY register compatibility and SFP+ host communication, while two-wire serial enables daisy-chained configurations in multi-device systems.
VSC8256YMR-01 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 256-BBGA, FCBGA
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Ethernet
- Interface:
- SPI
- Number of Circuits:
- 4
- Voltage - Supply:
- 1V, 1.2V
- Current - Supply:
- -
- Power (Watts):
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 256-FCBGA (17x17)
VSC8256YMR-01 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for VSC8256YMR-01 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for VSC8256YMR-01 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 VSC8256YMR-01 reliable?
The price and inventory of VSC8256YMR-01 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for VSC8256YMR-01 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for VSC8256YMR-01?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for VSC8256YMR-01 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for VSC8256YMR-01?
VSC8256YMR-01 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your VSC8256YMR-01 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 VSC8256YMR-01?
For technical support, including VSC8256YMR-01 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your VSC8256YMR-01 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that VSC8256YMR-01 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All VSC8256YMR-01 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 VSC8256YMR-01 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of VSC8256YMR-01?
All VSC8256YMR-01 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with VSC8256YMR-01, 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 VSC8256YMR-01 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for VSC8256YMR-01:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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