Retimers extend the reach for 25GbE signals | Overview

The Intel® Ethernet Connection C827 retimer extends the reach of Ethernet signals. Retimers enable system designers to optimize PCB material cost for longer channel routes on server and embedded designs. The following are the common use cases for this device:

• Per-lane 10GbE link and its multi-lane derivative - 40GbE link (4x10GbE)
• Per-lane 25GbE link and its multi-lane derivatives - 50GbE (2x25Gbe) and 100GbE link (4x25GbE)
• For a complete list of supported link modes¹, refer to Section 3.0 of the datasheet

By supporting a wide variety of IEEE and industry specifications for Ethernet, these retimers also enable maximum compatibility to Physical Layer (PHY) media types. The retimers also support Common Public Radio Interface (CPRI) to extend the reach between a base station and radio transceiver.

Unlike a redriver, retimers are capable of recovering and reclocking the data. Retimers support Physical Media Dependent (PMD) control function for BASE-R training and Clause 73 Auto-Negotiation, and enable Forward Error Correction (FEC) independent of the host controller.

The Intel Ethernet Connection C827 delivers consistent link behavior compliant with IEEE specifications, and eliminates the requirement to manually tune the link on individual channels