Xgig U.3-Server Xgig5P-PCIe5-X4-U3B 4-Lane Interposer Module for PCI Express 5.0
Active 4-lane U.3 interposer that captures bidirectional PCIe 5.0 traffic at 32GTps between a storage server and an NVMe SSD.
- Maximum data rate
- 32GTps
- Downward-compatible data rates
- 2.5, 5.0, 8.0 and 16GTps
- Link configuration
- 1 link of 4 lanes, or 2 links of 2 lanes
- Connector
- U.3
Overview
The VIAVI Xgig U.3-Server 4-lane Interposer for PCI Express 5.0 (Xgig5P-PCIe5-X4-U3B) is an active interposer for development, debugging and performance tuning of NVMe SSD operation in high-density storage servers. It captures bidirectional PCIe 5.0 protocol data on 4 lanes at 32GTps and passes it to a VIAVI PCIe 5.0 Analyzer. The interposer supports either 1 link of 4 lanes or 2 links of 2 lanes for dual-port operation, and is compliant with the SFF-TA-1001 connection standard for PCIe signals.
High-speed linear signal redrivers restore the signal quality of the PCIe data lanes across the interposer between the host system and the SSD under test, so that a clean signal reaches the Analyzer for protocol capture and analysis.
Construction
The Front-end module has the same physical size as a 2.5-inch SSD, so it can be inserted into the drive carrier normally used with the server; a lightweight handle can be attached instead for drive insertion. Flex cables allow the Back-end module, which holds the U.3 NVMe SSD under test, to lie on top of the server or on the lab bench. Adjustable tray clamps, shims and a quick-release latch hold the SSD in place and allow it to be swapped quickly. A supplied power brick makes the interposer power independent of the host system.
Operation
The interposer works with the VIAVI Xgig 5P8 and 5P16 PCIe 5.0 analysis chassis, connected through custom high-performance cables, with Xgig analysis tools running on a local or remote Windows PC. In Analyzer mode, data is tapped from both the upstream and downstream paths. In Jammer or Analyzer/Jammer mode, data flows through the Analyzer and is retimed for transmission, enabling error injection. In Analyzer/Exerciser mode, data flows through the interposer to the DUT, supporting endpoint emulation.
Typical uses include debugging and verifying new NVMe controller ICs, new system implementations and firmware, validating system BIOS and software, and quality assurance in manufacturing test.
Key Features
- Operates at up to 32GTps PCIe 5.0 data rates
- Downward compatible with PCIe gen-1, gen-2, gen-3 and gen-4 data rates of 2.5, 5.0, 8.0 and 16GTps
- Supports 1 link of 4 lanes, or 2 links of 2 lanes
- Front-end module plugs into the system under test
- U.3 NVMe SSD DUT (not supplied) plugs into the Back-end module
- Adjustable tray clamps and quick-release latch for a snug fit and quick SSD swap
- High-speed linear redrivers in the data path for good signal capture with minimal tuning
- Supplied with custom high-performance cables for Analyzer system attachment
- Supports Analyzer side-band signal triggering and capture via custom cable
- Supplied power brick makes interposer power independent of the host system
- LED indicators for power and status
- Compliant to the SFF-TA-1001 connection standard for PCIe signals
- Works with VIAVI Xgig 5P8 and 5P16 PCIe 5.0 analysis chassis
- Supported by the Xgig tool suite including Trace Control, Expert and Serialytics
- Consistent, repeatable capture of link training, equalization negotiation and other data
- Supports error injection for deep system analysis
- Exerciser endpoint emulation mode supported
Specifications
| Maximum data rate |
32GTps
PCIe 5.0
|
|---|---|
| Downward-compatible data rates |
2.5, 5.0, 8.0 and 16GTps
PCIe gen-1, gen-2, gen-3 and gen-4
|
| Link configuration |
1 link of 4 lanes, or 2 links of 2 lanes
2 x 2 lanes for dual port operation
|
| Connector | U.3 |
| Connection standard |
SFF-TA-1001
For PCIe signals
|
| Data path | High-speed linear redrivers |
| Front-end module size |
100.45 x 69.85 x 15mm
Same size as a 2.5-inch SSD
|
|---|---|
| Back-end module size | 226.8 x 111.2 x 33.3mm |
| Power brick |
120/220 input, 12V/3A output
Interposer power independent of host system
|
|---|
| Analysis platforms | VIAVI Xgig 5P8 and 5P16 PCIe 5.0 analysis chassis |
|---|---|
| Software |
Xgig tool suite including Trace Control, Expert and Serialytics
Runs on a local or remote Windows PC
|
Specifications are taken from the manufacturer's documentation. See the datasheet for complete and current values.
Applications
- NVMe SSD development and debugging
- Performance tuning in high-density storage servers
- NVMe controller IC debug and verification
- Firmware and system implementation verification
- System BIOS and software validation
- Manufacturing test quality assurance
- PCIe 5.0 trace capture with filtering and triggering
- Error injection testing
- Endpoint emulation with Xgig Exerciser
Included
- Xgig5P-PCIe5-X4-U3B, U.3 NVMe SSD-to-Server, 4-lane interposer for PCIe 5.0 (1)
- Custom high-performance data cables (2)
- Y-splitter cable (2)
- Sideband cable to analyzer (1)
- Coax cable for optional clock (2)
- Hardware kit including handle and screws (1)
- Power brick, 120/220 input, 12V/3A output (1)
- Quick Start Guide (1)
Options & Accessories
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Xgig5P-PCIe5-X4-U3B | Xgig U.3-to-Server, 4-lane, 32GTps Interposer for PCIe 5.0 |
| XGIG-INTPSR-A-Hx | 1-year extended hardware warranty — x=1,2,3,4 |