VIAVI Xgig U.2B-Server 4-lane PCIe 4.0 interposer front-end and back-end modules
VIAVI / Compute, Storage, Transport / PCIe Interposers
Xgig4K-PCIe4-X4-U2B

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
Datasheet

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

Interface
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
Physical
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
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

Documents & Resources