M88RT40816
Cost-optimized PCIe Gen4 retimer supporting 16 GT/s for server and storage applications
Product Overview
Description
The M88RT40816 is an 8-lane PCIe Gen4 retimer designed for cost-sensitive data center applications.
Supporting data rates up to 16 GT/s, it provides effective signal conditioning for server and storage system backplanes.
The retimer offers a balance of performance and cost for applications not requiring Gen5 speeds.
Product Series
M
Primary Application
Server backplanes
Key Features
- Supports PCIe Gen1 through Gen4 data rates
- 8 lanes configurable as x8, 2x4, or 4x2
- Advanced CTLE equalization
- Jitter cleaning capabilities
- Protocol-aware power management
- Built-in diagnostic features
Specifications
| Data Rate | 2.5-16 GT/s |
|---|---|
| Lanes | x8 (configurable as x8, x4, x2, x1) |
| Supply Voltage | 0.9V, 1.8V, 3.3V |
| Package | FCBGA-196 |
| Power Consumption | < 2W (Gen4 x8 active) |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to +85°C (ambient) |
Applications
Server backplanes
Electronic system design
Enterprise storage systems
Electronic system design
Networking equipment
Communication and interface
Industrial computing
Industrial automation and control
Cost-optimized data center
Electronic system design
FAE Expert Insights
"The M88RT40816 is an excellent cost-optimized solution for PCIe Gen4 applications. For designs not requiring Gen5 speeds, this retimer provides excellent value. I've used it successfully in storage system designs where Gen4 performance is sufficient. The lower power consumption (2W vs 4W for Gen5) simplifies thermal design. The x8 lane count is appropriate for many storage and networking applications. One consideration: ensure your application truly doesn't need Gen5 - if future-proofing is important, consider the M88RT41632 instead. Overall, this is a solid choice for cost-sensitive Gen4 designs."
Cost-optimized Gen4 retimer with excellent value for storage and networking applications
— Robert Zhang, BeiLuo
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I choose M88RT40816 over M88RT41632?
Choose M88RT40816 when: Your application only requires PCIe Gen4 (16 GT/s) speeds; You need x8 or fewer lanes; Cost optimization is important; Power consumption needs to be minimized; Thermal constraints favor lower power devices. Choose M88RT41632 when: You need PCIe Gen5 (32 GT/s) speeds; You need x16 lane capability; Future-proofing for Gen5 is important; Maximum performance is required. The M88RT40816 offers excellent value for Gen4 applications while the M88RT41632 provides maximum performance and future-proofing.
Select M88RT40816 for cost-sensitive Gen4 applications. Select M88RT41632 for Gen5 or future-proofing requirements.
What is the maximum channel length for M88RT40816?
The M88RT40816 can support various channel lengths depending on data rate and PCB quality. Typical capabilities: Gen4 (16 GT/s) - up to 30-36 inches of FR4 PCB; Gen3 (8 GT/s) - up to 40+ inches; Gen2/Gen1 - even longer distances. These distances assume standard PCB materials and proper layout practices. The Gen4 capability is sufficient for most server backplane applications. For very long channels, multiple retimers may be needed.
Use SI simulation to verify your specific channel. Contact LiTong for channel analysis support.
Can M88RT40816 be upgraded to support Gen5?
No, the M88RT40816 is designed specifically for PCIe Gen4 and cannot be upgraded to support Gen5 speeds. The device is optimized for cost and power at Gen4 speeds. If Gen5 support may be needed in the future, consider using the M88RT41632 from the start. While the M88RT41632 has higher cost and power, it provides Gen5 capability and future-proofing. The decision should be based on your roadmap and performance requirements.
Choose M88RT41632 if Gen5 may be needed in the future. M88RT40816 is fixed at Gen4 speeds.
What applications are best suited for M88RT40816?
The M88RT40816 is best suited for: Enterprise storage systems using PCIe Gen4 NVMe; Server backplanes with Gen4 connectivity; Networking equipment with x8 or lower lane requirements; Cost-optimized data center infrastructure; Industrial computing applications. The device provides excellent value for applications where Gen4 performance is sufficient and cost optimization is important. It is not suitable for applications requiring Gen5 speeds or x16 lane configurations.
Use M88RT40816 for cost-sensitive Gen4 applications. Contact LiTong for application-specific recommendations.
How does power consumption compare between Gen4 and Gen5 retimers?
Gen4 retimers like M88RT40816 typically consume around 2W for x8 operation, while Gen5 retimers like M88RT41632 consume around 4W for x16 operation. On a per-lane basis, Gen5 retimers are more power-efficient (0.25W/lane vs 0.25W/lane), but the higher data rates result in higher total power. The power difference impacts thermal design - Gen5 retimers require more attention to heatsinking and airflow. For power-sensitive applications, Gen4 retimers offer significant power savings.
Consider power budget when selecting between Gen4 and Gen5. Contact LiTong for power estimation tools.