VIAVI Xgig U.2B-Server Xgig4K-PCIe4-X4-U2B 4-lane Interposer Module for PCI Express 4.0
Active 4-lane U.2 version B interposer that taps PCIe 4.0 traffic at 16GTps between a storage server and an NVMe SSD for Xgig analysis.
- Maximum data rate
- 16GTps
- Downward-compatible data rates
- 2.5, 5.0 and 8.0GTps
- Link configuration
- 1 link of 4 lanes, or 2 links of 2 lanes each
- DUT connector
- U.2
Overview
The VIAVI Xgig U.2, version B Interposer (Xgig4K-PCIe4-X4-U2B) is an active interposer for development, debugging and performance tuning of NVMe solid state drive (SSD) operation in high-density storage servers. It captures bidirectional PCIe 4.0 protocol data on 4 lanes at 16GTps for analysis, and supports either 1 link of 4 lanes or 2 links of 2 lanes.
The interposer uses high-speed linear signal redrivers to restore the signal quality of the PCIe data lanes between the host system and the SSD device under test (DUT), so that a clean signal is delivered to the analyzer for protocol capture and analysis.
Mechanical design
The Front-end module is the same size as a 2.5-inch SSD, so it can be inserted into the drive carrier normally used with the server. A lightweight handle can be attached for drive insertion instead. Flex cables allow the Back-end module, which holds the U.2 NVMe SSD, to sit on top of the server or on the lab bench. Adjustable tray clamps and shims provide a snug fit.
Test setup
The NVMe SSD is inserted into the interposer, which is then plugged into the NVMe bay or drive carrier of the storage server. Custom high-performance cables connect the interposer to a VIAVI Xgig 4K4 or 4K16 PCIe 4.0 Analyzer/Jammer chassis, and the Xgig analysis tools run on a local or remote Windows PC. In Analyzer mode, DUT data is tapped from both upstream and downstream paths; in Jammer or Analyzer/Jammer mode, data flows through the analyzer and is retimed for transmission.
Key Features
- Operates up to and including 16GTps, PCIe 4.0 data rates
- Downward compatible with PCIe 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0 data rates of 2.5, 5.0 and 8.0GTps
- Supports 1 link of 4 lanes, or dual-port operation of 2 links of 2 lanes each
- Front-end module plugs into system-under-test
- U.2 NVMe SSD DUT (not supplied) plugs into the Back-end module
- Adjustable tray clamps and quick-release latch allow for snug fit and hot swap testing
- Data path uses high-speed linear redrivers to ensure good signal capture with minimal tuning
- Supplied with custom SFF-8764 cables for Analyzer system attachment
- Supports side-band signal triggering and capture
- Supplied power brick makes Interposer power independent of host system
- LEDs give quick indicators of power and status
- Works with VIAVI Xgig 4K4 and 4K16 PCIe 4.0 Analyzer/Jammer chassis
- Provides consistent, repeatable capture of link training, negotiation and other data
- Supports error injection for deep system analysis
- Supported by Xgig tool suite including Trace Control, Expert and Serialytics
Specifications
| Maximum data rate |
16GTps
PCIe 4.0
|
|---|---|
| Downward-compatible data rates | 2.5, 5.0 and 8.0GTps |
| Link configuration |
1 link of 4 lanes, or 2 links of 2 lanes each
Dual-port operation
|
| DUT connector |
U.2
NVMe SSD DUT not supplied
|
| Analyzer connection | mSAS HD 4x cable connectors |
| Compatible analyzers | VIAVI Xgig 4K4 and 4K16 PCIe 4.0 Analyzer/Jammer chassis |
| Front-end module size | 254 x 98 x 9.5 mm |
|---|---|
| Back-end module size | 69.8 x 100.4 x 12.7 mm |
| Power brick |
120/220 input, 12V/3A output
Supplied; makes interposer power independent of host system
|
|---|
Specifications are taken from the manufacturer's documentation. See the datasheet for complete and current values.
Applications
- Development, debugging and performance tuning of NVMe SSDs in high-density storage servers
- IC development, debug and validation
- Subsystem and system-level testing
- Firmware and driver development and validation
- Performance analysis
- Validation of system BIOS and software
- Manufacturing test quality assurance
Included
- U.2, Version B NVMe SSD-to-Server, 4-lane Interposer for PCIe 4.0 (1)
- SFF-8674 custom high-performance cables (2)
- Custom SFF-8674 Y-splitter cables (2)
- Sideband cable to analyzer (1)
- Coax cable for optional clock (4)
- Hardware kit, includes handle and screws (1)
- Power brick, 120/220 input, 12V/3A output (1)
- Quick Start Guide (1)
Options & Accessories
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Xgig4K-PCIe4-X4-U2B-H1 | 1-year extended hardware warranty |