Xgig U.3-Server Xgig4K-PCIe4-X4-U3 4-lane Interposer Module for PCI Express 4.0

Active 4-lane PCIe 4.0 interposer that taps traffic between a host system and a U.3 NVMe SSD at 16GTps for VIAVI Xgig analyzers.

Maximum data rate: 16GTps
Downward compatible data rates: 2.5, 5.0 and 8.0GTps
Link configuration: 1 link of 4 lanes, or 2 links of 2 lanes
Connector standard: SFF-TA-1001

Datasheet

Overview

The VIAVI Xgig U.3-Server, 4-lane Interposer for PCI Express 4.0 (Xgig4K-PCIe4-X4-U3) is an active interposer for development, debugging and performance tuning of NVMe SSD operation in high-density storage servers. It captures bidirectional PCIe 4.0 protocol data on 4 lanes at 16GTps for analysis, and supports either 1 link of 4 lanes or 2 links of 2 lanes. It is compliant with the SFF-TA-1001 connection standard for PCIe signals.

The interposer uses high-speed linear signal redrivers to buffer the PCIe data lanes between the host system and the SSD under test, so that a clean signal reaches the analyzer for protocol capture and analysis. The front-end module is the same physical size as a 2.5-inch SSD and fits the server's normal drive carrier; a light-weight handle can be attached for drive insertion instead. Flex cables allow the back-end module to rest on top of the server or on the lab bench.

Application

Used with the VIAVI PCIe 4.0 Analyzer/Jammer chassis, the interposer supports debug and verification of new NVMe controller ICs, new system implementations and firmware, validation of system BIOS and software, and manufacturing test quality assurance. An NVMe SSD is inserted into the interposer, which is then placed in the NVMe bay or drive carrier of the storage server; tray clamps and shims are adjusted for fit, and mini-SAS HD 4X cables connect it to the analyzer platform. Xgig analysis tools run on a local or remote Windows PC.

In Analyzer mode, data is tapped from both the upstream and downstream paths as analyzer inputs. In Jammer mode or Analyzer/Jammer mode, data flows through the analyzer and is resynchronized (retimed) for transmission.

Key Features

Operates up to 16GTps, PCIe 4.0 data rates
Downward compatible with PCIe data rates of 2.5, 5.0 and 8.0GTps
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 snug fit and quick SSD swap
High-speed linear redrivers in the data path for good signal capture with little or no tuning
Supplied with custom high-performance cables for analyzer system attachment
Supports side-band signal triggering and capture
Supplied power brick makes interposer power independent of the host system
LEDs indicate power and status
Works with VIAVI Xgig 4K4 and 4K16 PCIe 4.0 Analyzer/Jammer chassis
Supported by VIAVI Xgig Analysis tools for trace capture with flexible filters and triggers
Consistent, repeatable capture of link training, negotiation and other data
Supports error injection for deep system analysis
Compliant to the SFF-TA-1001 connection standard for PCIe signals

Specifications

Interface

Maximum data rate	16GTps PCIe 4.0
Downward compatible data rates	2.5, 5.0 and 8.0GTps
Link configuration	1 link of 4 lanes, or 2 links of 2 lanes
Connector standard	SFF-TA-1001 Connections standard for PCIe signals
DUT connector	U.3
Analyzer cables	SFF-8674 custom high-performance cables mini-SAS HD 4X; the web page lists these as SFF-8764 cables, the datasheet kit contents and diagram state SFF-8674

Physical

Front-end module size	254 x 98 x 9.5 mm
Back-end module size	69.8 x 100.4 x 12.7 mm

Power

Power brick	120/220 input, 12V/3A output

Specifications are taken from the manufacturer's documentation. See the datasheet for complete and current values.

Applications

NVMe SSD development and debugging
Performance tuning of NVMe SSDs in high-density storage servers
Debug and verification of NVMe controller ICs
Firmware and system implementation verification
System BIOS and software validation
Manufacturing test quality assurance

Included

U.3 NVMe SSD-to-Server, 4-lane interposer for PCIe 4.0 (1)
SFF-8674 custom high-performance cables (2)
Y-splitter cable (1)
Sideband cable to analyzer (1)
Coax cable for optional clock (4)
Hardware kit including handle and screws (1)
Power brick, 120/220 input, 12V/3A output (1)
Quick Start Guide (1)

Options & Accessories

Option	Description
Xgig4K-PCIe4-X4-U3-H1	1-year extended hardware warranty

Documents & Resources

Xgig U.3-Server, 4-lane Interposer for PCI Express 4.0

datasheet · PDF