Broadcom unveils Low Power BCM84328 Physical Layer Transceiver

Next generation networks demand higher density and bandwidth for data transmission. The BCM84328 delivers robust features and lowers system costs by integrating optical module control functionality that typically reside in field programmable gate arrays. Broadcom's new Octal 10GbE/Dual 40GbE BCM84328 PHY optimizes high-speed performance at the lowest power consumption in the industry — 300mW per full duplex10GbE port.

The BCM84328 delivers comprehensive PHY features such as line and system high-speed equalization to drive SFP+, QSFP+, or KR interfaces, PRBS pattern generators and checkers, loopback functionality, and on-chip AC coupling capacitors to satisfy requirements for higher density switch and server configurations. The BCM84328 extends Broadcom's industry-leading portfolio of 10GbE and 40GbE solutions for data centre and enterprise networks — the broadest in the industry.

Key Features:
•On-chip IEEE CL85 auto transmitter tuning for optimal performance over 10GBASE-CR4 copper cables
•Superior adaptive equalizer technology drive copper KR/KR4 backplanes and CR/CR4 cables on both line and system interfaces
•On-chip AC coupling capacitors drive down costs and improve signal integrity at higher speeds

Lorenzo Longo, Broadcom Vice President & General Manager, HSIP commented: The BCM84328 delivers high-speed performance at the lowest power consumption in the industry to meet requirements for high-density data centre applications. Offering comprehensive PHY functionality resulting in a simplified board design, Broadcom is enabling customers to meet demands for high-speed Ethernet networking and lower power consumption while speeding time-to-market.

The BCM84328 device is now sampling with production volume scheduled for second half of 2012.