The DS160PR1601 is a linear redriver that can be used to extend channel reach of a PCIe link. Normally, PCIe-compliant Tx and Rx are equipped with signal-conditioning functions and can handle channel losses of up to 28 dB at 16 Gbps (8 GHz) PCIe 4.0. With the DS160PR1601, the total channel loss between a PCIe root complex and an end point can be extended up to 42 dB (16 dB additional) at 8 GHz.

To demonstrate the reach extension capability of the DS160PR1601, two comparative setups are constructed. In first setup as shown in #X3590 there is no redriver in the PCIe 5.0 link. #FIG_L1S_HK3_BTB shows eye diagram at the end of the link using SigTest. In second setup as shown in #GUID-061CC0D4-53D5-4E4F-9D6B-47062873D590, the DS160PR1601 is inserted in the middle to extend link reach. #FIG_QSP_3K3_BTB shows SigTest eye diagram.

Figure 8-3 PCIe 4.0 Link Baseline Setup Without Redriver – Link Elements

Figure 8-5 PCIe 4.0 Link Setup with the DS160PR1601 – the Link Elements

Figure 8-4 PCIe 4.0 link Baseline Setup Without Redriver – Eye Diagram Using SigTest

Figure 8-6 PCIe 4.0 Link Setup with the DS160PR1601 – Eye Diagram Using SigTest

Table 8-1 summarizes the PCIe 4.0 links without and with the DS160PR1601. The illustration shows that redriver is capable of ≅16 dB (additional) reach extension at PCIe 4.0 speed with EQ = 15 and flat_gain = 101. Note: actual reach extension depends on various signal integrity factors. It is recommended to run signal intergrity simulations with all the components in the link to get any guidance.