Ethernet signals are subject to crosstalk, a disturbance in signal caused by electromagnetic interference. Molex’s I-Trac broadside-coupled backplane connector system and Phyworks’ PHY1066 equalizer enabled Backplane Interface Device (BID) together compensate for this speed-inhibiting factor. Both showed robust 10 Gbps data transmission in the presence of crosstalk aggressors. This accomplishment will let system suppliers communicate at high data-rates between devices and cards using minimal components.

The PHY1066 offers channel equalization to compensate for the intersymbol interference that occurs when data are transmitted at high speed over a copper backplane. The device uses novel adaptation algorithms together with low distortion signal path circuit technology and a high performance CDR. The I-Trac controls impedance, with lower cross-talk and higher overall bandwidth. With its open pin-field design, the system provides customers the flexibility to assign high-speed differential pairs, low-speed signals, power, and ground contacts anywhere within the pin-field.

As 10Gbit Ethernet gains popularity, several applications could use the extra bandwidth, such as video on demand, distributed computing, HPC deployments, medical imaging, and scientific simulation. Enterprises can set up campus-wide networks covering larger distances. Bandwith intensive applications will grow, such as digital video conferencing and VoIP. Companies will have faster access to their data centers and disaster recovery centers in different cities.