Introduction

Why Transceiver Equalization Optimization Matters

As data center networks continue to scale, ensuring optimal signal integrity in high-speed interconnects has become a critical engineering challenge. With the increasing adoption of 100G, 400G, and 800G transceivers, two critical tuning parameters, RX Output Equalization and TX Input Equalization, play a major role in making sure transceivers and hosts work together smoothly. Precise RX Output Equalization tuning is essential for minimizing bit error rate (BER) and maintaining link stability. This is particularly crucial for cable/transceiver manufacturers, who must ensure their modules perform optimally across a range of host-side TX equalization settings.

However, manual equalization tuning is inefficient, requiring extensive trial-and-error adjustments to identify the optimal pre-cursor, main cursor, and post-cursor settings. To streamline this process, Xena Cable Performance Optimization Methodology provides an automated transceiver equalization optimization procedure, leveraging PRBS-based BER testing to systematically determine the best equalization parameters.

This test suite is designed to:

  • Optimize transceiver RX Output/TX Input Equalization settings, ensuring minimal BER and maximum signal integrity.

  • Integrate seamlessly with Xena test equipment, utilizing high-precision traffic generation and analysis tools.

  • Leverage the CMIS (Common Management Interface Specification) standard for standardized transceiver configuration and control.

  • Automate the tuning process, reducing engineering time and eliminating the inefficiencies of manual equalization adjustments.

Who Can Benefit from This?

Xena Cable Performance Optimization Methodology systematically evaluates transceiver RX Output/TX Input Equalization settings in conjunction with real-time PRBS BER feedback. The system intelligently converges on the optimal settings, ensuring transceiver modules achieve peak performance across various deployment environments.

This solution is ideal for cable/transceiver manufacturers including transceiver R&D, validation, and automated production testing. It enables cable/transceiver manufacturers to confidently deliver high-performance, CMIS-compliant transceivers that operate reliably in any data center infrastructure.