TeraSignal intros CMOS Re-Driver for 800G LPO

TeraSignal has begun sampling a novel intelligent 400G (4x100G) PAM4 modulator driver with digital link training and link monitoring for 800G linear pluggable optical (LPO) modules. 

TeraSignal’s new TS8401/02 intelligent modulator driver addresses the limitations of traditional LPO modules, which unlike DSP-based re-timers, have lacked the capabilities for automatic adaptation, digital link monitoring and link training, making them challenging to integrate, interoperate, and deploy efficiently. By leveraging the existing microcontroller (MCU) in the LPO module, the TS8401/02 automates essential adjustments and introduces link diagnostics and link accountability, transforming LPO modules into adaptive link optimizing systems.

TeraSignal says its re-timer facilitates a closed-loop system that not only identifies but also rectifies link issues in real time, ensuring uninterrupted, high-quality data transmission across the board. The advanced CMOS implementation reduces power consumption by as much as 50% compared to existing Silicon Germanium (SiGe) solutions and significantly boosts link reliability and performance through statistical link monitoring and adaptive control capabilities.

“TeraSignal’s intelligent CMOS solution for LPO modules redefines high-speed interconnects, merging low latency and power efficiency with unmatched link performance measurement capabilities, diagnostics, and quick time to market,” said Dr. Armond Hairapetian, founder and CEO of TeraSignal. “We are committed to delivering IRD solutions with superior performance over both fiber and copper interconnects. By incorporating intelligence within the re-driver, we have introduced a new class of AI-centric CMOS devices that offer DSP-like features with significantly lower power and the lowest possible latency, setting a new industry standard for high-speed interconnects.”

Product Highlights

• Intelligent 400G (4x100G) PAM4 modulator driver with integrated digital eye monitoring and link training.
• Fully programmable linear output driver and equalizer for unparalleled signal integrity.
• Automatic gain control supporting a wide range of input and output voltages.
• More than 50% lower power consumption compared to non-CMOS drivers, significantly reducing operating costs and environmental impact.
• Compact form factor and integration-ready design for seamless deployment in QSFP-DD/OSFP optical modules.

Additional TS8401/02 Benefits

• Lower Power Consumption: Leveraging advanced design techniques in CMOS, the TS8401/02 operates at significantly lower power levels than existing DSP and SiGe-based solutions, marking a new standard in energy efficiency.
• Reduced Latency: Due to their discrete-time nature, DSP-based re-timers must slow down the data traffic to perform the required data conversion, serialization/deserialization, and filtering functions. By eliminating the latency-causing building blocks in the continuous-time signal path, TS8401/02 significantly reduces data transmission latency.
• Digital Eye Monitor: The on-board digital sampling scope in the TS8401/02 provides unparalleled flexibility and real-time insights into link performance, ensuring optimal signal integrity and reliability.
• Link Training with Host SerDes: The TS8401/02 supports seamless integration and automatic configuration with host systems, further streamlining the deployment and operation of high-speed optical links.


The TS8401 features wire bond pads, while the TS8402 offers the same capabilities in a flip-chip version.