Keysight and Samtec Showcase New 112 Gbps PAM4 Connectivity
Samtec and Keysight Team Up to Showcase High-Performance NovaRay Connector System at DesignCon 2024
Samtec, a leading innovator in high-speed interconnect solutions, collaborated with industry leader Keysight at DesignCon 2024 to demonstrate the exceptional capabilities of their NovaRay connector system. This live demonstration highlighted the power of multi-domain testing for ensuring signal integrity in cutting-edge applications.
Unveiling Performance with Advanced Test Equipment
The live demo showcased two distinct test setups:
High-Speed Signal Integrity Analysis: A Keysight P5028B VNA (Vector Network Analyzer), boasting four ports and a frequency range of up to 53 GHz, was utilized to evaluate a Samtec NovaRay mezzanine connector system (NVAM, NVAF products) at an impressive 112 Gbps PAM4 signal transmission rate.
Precise Time Domain Characterization: A Keysight DCA-Z (N1000A) Time Domain Reflectometer (TDR), featuring a remarkable six-picosecond rise time, was employed to meticulously examine a Samtec NovaRay Flyover® cable system (NVAC series).
Multi-Domain Testing: Unveiling a Deeper Dimension
The TDR testing provided a granular view of the Samtec Flyover Cable system, pinpointing impedance inconsistencies even in the most minute features. Physical Layer Test System (PLTS) Software was leveraged to conduct a comprehensive analysis across both the time and frequency domains. This analysis encompassed crucial parameters such as insertion loss, return loss, impedance, and skew.
Beyond Standard Analysis: Unveiling New Horizons
The live demonstration showcased a groundbreaking multi-domain template encompassing time domain, frequency domain, and eye diagrams. This comprehensive analysis was generated and meticulously evaluated based on the acquired S-parameters and time domain data. Keysight's innovative new PLTS software option introduced another exciting dimension - the ability to perform material characterization alongside the multi-domain analysis within the PLTS software.
Material Characterization: Optimizing Performance
The test system not only analyzed the NovaRay SI Eval Board's PCB stack-up, revealing its dielectric constant (dK) and loss tangent (dF), but also provided valuable insights into surface roughness. This information is particularly critical when selecting PCB materials suited for high-speed reference designs that incorporate NovaRay connectors. Material characterization using a physical layer test system establishes a vital link between actual measurements and modeling efforts.
NovaRay: Unmatched Performance and Density
Samtec NovaRay cable assemblies are a testament to exceptional engineering. They achieve the remarkable feat of combining extreme density with unparalleled performance, supporting 112 Gbps PAM4 per channel while occupying a footprint 40% smaller than traditional array solutions. These cable assemblies cater to a wide range of applications, including:
- Datacom
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
- High-Performance Computing (HPC)
- Computer and Semiconductor Industries
- Medical Electronics
- Test and Measurement Equipment
- Military and Aerospace Applications
- Mobile Networks
Samtec NovaRay cable assemblies boast exceptionally low crosstalk (FEXT and NEXT below 30 dB) extending up to 40 GHz. Furthermore, they operate flawlessly across a wide temperature range of -40 to +125 °C and are fully compliant with PCIe® 6.0 and CXL® 3.1 specifications.
The NovaRay Advantage: Density Meets Performance
The ingenious design of the Samtec NovaRay connector system strikes a perfect balance between extreme density and industry-leading performance. This is particularly crucial as advancements in technology lead to smaller system sizes while demanding ever-increasing data transmission speeds. The NovaRay system achieves a staggering aggregate data rate of 4.0 Tbps, owing to its fully shielded differential pair design and two reliable points of contact.
Partner with BonChip Electronics for Your High-Speed Interconnect Needs
BonChip Electronics is your trusted distributor for a comprehensive selection of Samtec high-speed interconnect solutions, including the revolutionary NovaRay connector system. Our team of experts possesses in-depth knowledge of Samtec products and can guide you in selecting the ideal interconnect components for your high-speed applications. We offer exceptional service, competitive pricing, and fast delivery times. Contact BonChip Electronics today to explore how Samtec NovaRay can elevate the performance and efficiency of your next-generation designs.
