The industry’s first SFP28 transceiver IC

Maxim’s SFP28 transceiver also includes advanced digital eye tuning capabilities that enable use of low-cost TO-can based optics. The SFP28 module can simply be designed in the same way as an SFP+ module using TO optics, one transceiver IC and one controller IC.

SFP28 optical modules for data centres and radio fronthaul applications need to offer cost competitive performance relative to the incumbent SFP+ module, while still having low power and a wide operating temperature range. Optimised specifically for these requirements, Maxim’s 28.1Gb/s low-power transceiver IC has a CDR and laser driver in the transmit path, as well as a high sensitivity limiting amp and CDR in the receive path.

The SFP28 transceiver lowers module BOM costs through the use of TO-can based optics and reduces production costs by reusing TO-can-based 10Gb/s manufacturing flow to improve yield. The transceiver also accelerates time-to-market with digital eye tuning at the output to reduce design spins.

Andrew Sharratt, Director of Business Management, Maxim Integrated, commented: “Maxim’s SFP28 transceiver builds on our proven 100Gb/s technology and gives the industry what it needs to move to higher bandwidth interconnect. Shipping now to customers who are already in mass production, Maxim’s SFP28 IC enables cost effective upgrades to enterprise, hyperscale data centre and radio access networks.”

The transceiver operates over a temperature range from -40 to +100°C and is available immediately.

Maxim will demonstrate its industry-leading SFP28 transceiver and other optical ICs at OFC 2016, 22nd to 24th March in Hall A, Booth 1272.