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Outer Loop Equalization for PCIe Cross-Lane Transceiver Optimization

PCIe Gen4 Standards Margin-Assisted Outer-Layer Equalization for Cross-Lane Optimization in a 16GT/s PCIe Link

PCIe Gen4 enables new wave of innovation to guide inner-loop SerDes optimization assisted by outer-loop system optimization. This paper introduces an outer-layer equalization scheme for managing SerDes inner-layer equalization to optimize overall system-level aggregate performance.


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40 GHz PCB Interconnect Validation: Expectations vs Reality

What does it take to design PCB interconnects with good analysis-to-measurement correlation up to 40 GHz? Is it doable with typical low-cost PCB materials and fabrication process, typical trace width, via back-drilling and the shortage of space to place the stitching vias? This paper reports lessons learned from validation projects with the goal to build a formal procedure for systematic prediction of interconnect behavior up to 40 GHz. Topics include: selection of test structures, connectors and measurement equipment, and analysis uncertainties.

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A Causal Conductor Roughness Model and its Effect on Transmission Line Characteristics

In the GB/s regime, accurate modeling of insertion loss and phase delay is a precursor to successful high-speed serial link designs. We propose a causal (physically meaningful) form of the Hammerstad and Cannonball-Huray metal roughness frequency dependent complex correction factor. Compared to the widely used, non-causal form, it considerably increases the inductive component of internal metal impedance. Transmission lines simulated with a causal version demonstrate increased phase delay and characteristic impedance. By obtaining the dielectric and roughness parameters solely from manufacturers' data sheets, we validate the model through a detailed case study to test its accuracy.


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Bet Your Life

Ransom Stephens describes himself as physicist, author and technologist. Add life coach to that list, which he aptly played delivering one of the two keynotes at the Electronic Design Innovation Conference (EDI CON) last week in Santa Clara. Titled “Innovation, Incorporation, and Integrity,” Stephens riffed on why we work and not losing sight of our values and calling.


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EDI CON Conversations Offer New Insights

The third Electronic Design Innovation Conference (EDICON), was held Oct 17-18, 2018 in Santa Clara. The attendees were treated to two days of technical talks, tutorials and tradeshow with the overlapping topics of RF, SI, PI and EMI. This is a unique combination, allowing cross fertilization between these otherwise separate fields.


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Life at the Low End

We usually associate problems with the power distribution network (PDN) as from excess VRM noise, or from transient current draw from the core or I/O drivers. But that’s not the only source of PDN noise. Some failures can arise from dull, boring, mundane problems at DC.


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