Skyrocketing demand for bandwidth-intensive, data-driven services is fueling a rise in compute, data storage and networking capabilities. Molex AEC Solutions deliver 112 Gbps PAM-4 data rates.

As data rate requirements increase, signal loss grows as a design issue. Engineers have several options, such as optical connectivity, linear amplifiers and re-timers—each option has its own pros and cons. AECs present an ideal option when cable lengths over 1.5 to 2.0m is required. Because the connectors in AEC assemblies regenerate signals and remove noise, restraints due to signal loss within the box are significantly lightened even at lengths up to 5.0 to 7.0m.

As speeds and capabilities increase, thermal management becomes more challenging for telecommunication and networking OEMs. There is a need to minimize the air impedance caused by heavy cabling in front of the chassis. AEC Solutions minimize cable bundle size, 28 to 34 AWG, reducing airflow impedance in front of the chassis.

Data center managers often need cable lengths longer than 2.0m to reach between boxes, but longer lengths experience greater loss. AEC 112 Gbps PAM-4 Solutions enable external lengths up to 5.0 to 7.0m.

This is not a definitive list of applications for this product. It represents some of the more common uses.

Why use a re-timer rather than a linear amplifier?
While linear amplifiers are less expensive, they don’t eliminate noise or recondition signals as re-timers do. Additionally, with linear amplifiers, there is a greater dependency on the design of the whole channel. This makes “mix and matching” one vendor’s ToR with another vendor’s server more challenging in terms of ensuring good SI across the channel. However, because re-timers re-condition the signal, eliminating noise, rack implementation becomes more flexible. Customers can confidently connect multiple vendors’ TORs and server solutions within the same rack or across different racks.

How can AECs help with thermal management?
AEC re-timers enable more efficient signal transmission over smaller conductors. This results in cabling as small as 28 to 34 AWG, allowing increased airflow and reduced thermal issues.

Under what circumstances should I use AECs? When should I use DACs?
AECs provide a viable solution and a lower cost than optical. However, if cost and power are an issue and the length of the channel can be serviced by a passive DAC, then passive DACs may be the right solution.