White Paper topics including
the MIPS processor, SONET, Ethernet and SERDES
Latest White Paper Library Additions
- Transporting Sub-ODU1 Rate Signals in the OTN [published: Sep 2009]
- Requirements for Next Generation Rate-Agile SERDES [published: July 2009]
- A Tutorial on ITU-T G.709 Optical Transport Networks (OTN) [published: July 2009]
- Introduction to IEEE 802.3av 10Gbit/s Ethernet Passive Optical Networks (10G EPON) [published: January 2009]
- ATCA Design Considerations for Telecommunication Platforms [published: August 2008]
- 10G EPON Brings Advantages to the Fiber Access Network [published: June 2008]
Servers & Storage
Controller Based Encryption
Abstract: The need for protection of sensitive personal information or trade secrets is becoming crucial in
safeguarding the interests of any organization. This paper provides an insight in tightening data
security for data at rest using methods of encryption and specifically encryption using external
array controller based technologies. The purpose of this paper is to educate readers on different
configurations of external array controller based encryption and different issues and merits of
each. This paper is written for array and server architects, and R&D managers looking to learn
more about methods to increase data security and applications of controller based encryption.
[published:
June 2008]
Evolution of SAS
Abstract: SAS is evolving. SAS, which has replaced cabled parallel SCSI as the interconnect technology of choice, provides high bandwidth and high data throughput and is compatible with existing SATA topologies. This paper provides an overview of SAS and discusses how second generation SAS controllers, expanders and port multiplexers can be optimized to ensure better bandwidth utilization, easier management and network robustness.
[published:
April 2007]
Managing Access Control Through SAS Zoning
Abstract: Serial Attached SCSI (SAS) is gaining
popularity in small storage area network (SAN) server environments. SAS has
gained significant interest as a mechanism for connecting large groups of
targets in small SAN or in cluster or blade server environments and allowing
these servers to share resources across their targets. With SAS's rise in
popularity comes the need to segregate and manage device traffic by zones in a
similar fashion to what is already done in larger Fibre Channel networks or
Ethernet using virtual LANs. This paper discusses how SAS zoning, as proposed
to the T10 Technical Committee of the INCITS SAS 2 working group, can meet
these zoning and access control needs. SAS zoning provides functionality for
traffic segregation, resource flexibility, controlled resource sharing,
topology control, and protection against unauthorized access. This paper
includes an overview of SAS zoning operation and implementation, and a
discussion of how zoning enables the management of SAS-based blade servers,
which support both enterprise-class applications with SAS HDDs and
near-line/fixed content storage requirements with SATA HDDs.
[published:
September 2005]
Storage Area Network
Architectures Abstract: This PMC-Sierra white paper
provides an architectural overview of storage technology, SAN switches and
Storage Elements. The systems discussed are partitioned into the functional
building blocks needed to address individual functional requirements of the
systems. Finally the paper explores the technology trends in the SAN industry
and their evolution with the changing trend in IC technology and SAN protocols.
[published: April 2003]
Wireline Infrastructure
Requirements for Next Generation Rate-Agile SERDES
Abstract: The existing and emerging requirements for next generation rate-agile Serializer/De-serializer (SERDES) designs are forcing system designers to re-examine their SERDES vendors' designs. This document outlines and discusses these requirements that system designers should consider when choosing a SERDES vendor. [published: July 2009]
A Tutorial on ITU-T G.709 Optical Transport Networks (OTN)
Abstract: The SONET/SDH network that has grown to be the backbone of most of the modern telecommunications network was originally designed for optical interfaces that used a single wavelength per fiber. As optical component technology has advanced, it can become more economical to transmit multiple SONET/SDH signals over the same fiber using wave division multiplexing (WDM) instead of going to a higher rate SONET/SDH signal. Based on experience with the SONET/SDH networks, the ITU-T defined a transport network that was optimized for cost-effective transparent transport of a variety of client signals over WDM networks. The optical transport network (OTN) architecture is specified in ITU-T Rec. G.872 and the frame format and payload mappings are specified in G.709 for carrying SONET/SDH, Ethernet and storage area network (SAN) signals in a much more cost-effective manner than was possible over SONET/SDH networks.
This white paper provides a tutorial overview of OTN, with primary emphasis on ITU-T G.709. The white paper also discusses various constraints that influenced the development of G.709, its current status in the network, and some factors that will affect its future. [published: July 2009]
ATCA Design Considerations for Telecommunication Platforms
Abstract: This white paper reviews the Advanced Telecommunications Computing Architecture (AdvancedTCA or ATCA) standard and the benefits that it delivers to Original Equipment Manufactures (OEMs) and Carriers. ATCA addresses the market need for cost optimization at the system and infrastructure levels by enabling an ecosystem of carrier-grade off-the shelf chassis, I/O and processing blades. This paper describes some of the hardware requirements like backplane capacities and equipment protection mechanisms. Moreover, readers will learn how PMC-Sierra’s PM8310 TEMUX 336 enables OEMs to address these hardware requirements effectively. [published: August 2008]
Implementing Transmultiplexing for SONET/SDH MSPPs
Abstract:
This white paper discusses the fundamental concept of transmultiplexing and its importance for
carriers in North America as T1 services continue to witness growth, particularly in wireless
backhaul applications. With a large installed base of T1/DS3 networks in North America,
transmultiplexing provides a solution that bridges the legacy PDH world with today's
SONET/SDH networks.
The paper provides a survey of the transmultiplexing (transmux) functionality from a network,
equipment and silicon perspective. It outlines the key role this function plays in next generation
networks in North America, and how the requirement for supporting transmux drives carrier
equipment and silicon developments. The paper illustrates how MSPP vendors can implement
highly scalable ported and portless transmux solutions with PMC-Sierra's PM8318 TEMAP
168, which integrates high-density T1/E1 framing, bi-directional performance monitoring and
report messaging.
[published: March 2007]
ROADMs and the Evolution of the Metro Optical Core Abstract: This white paper provides a technical review of the recent developments in Reconfigurable Optical Add/Drop Multiplexer (ROADM) architectures that can be exploited to deploy flexible, scalable and reliable metropolitan area networks with a low total cost of ownership. Specifically, it discusses the integration of some or all of the sub-wavelength grooming functionality typically found in a Multi-Service Provisioning Platform (MSPP) into a ROADM, and presents the major architectural alternatives for realizing this solution, including associated design considerations.
[published: September 2006]
Supporting VoIP over Ethernet over
SONET/SDH (EOS) Abstract: This paper examines the QoS properties of EoS
and the QoS requirements for VoIP. It examines the various network architectures for transporting
VoIP in Residential and Enterprise environment. It then demonstrates that EoS easily meets the QoS
requirements of VoIP and can be used in both residential and enterprise applications to provide superior
VoIP quality. [published: February 2006]
Ethernet Transport over PDH Networks
with Virtual Concatenation Abstract: Virtual
concatenation and LCAS were originally defined for SONET/SDH signals and G.709
OTN signals. Asynchronous hierarchy (DSn) and PDH signals lacked the overhead
bandwidth required for the virtual concatenation and LCAS overhead channel. DSn
and PDH signals are still leased by carriers as the means of accessing their
enterprise customers through another carrier's network. Aside from the
ubiquitous availability of DSn/PDH connectivity, there are regulatory
conditions in the United States that give DSn connectivity a price advantage
for this application. When the virtual concatenation of DSn and PDH signals was
requested by multiple carriers, modified signal frame formats were defined to
create the required overhead channel. These frame formats are defined in new
ITU-T Recommendation G.7043, and the topic of this white paper. This white
paper also covers the mapping of GFP payloads into these signals, as defined in
new ITU-T Recommendation G.8040. [published: November 2005]
Ethernet over Transport White Paper Abstract: A convergence of
technology and applications has created an increased desire for Ethernet WAN
connectivity. In many ways, Ethernet is an obvious technology choice. It
simplifies enterprise network administration, and provides a ubiquitous,
inexpensive infrastructure of existing Ethernet interfaces on enterprise
equipment. The development of VCAT and GFP allows efficient transport of
Ethernet frames through SONET/SDH networks. In addition, Ethernet bridge and
router technology requires less provisioning and administration than
technologies such as ATM. As some carriers begin a migration to using packet
switching technology such as MPLS in their core networks rather than
traditional circuit switching, Ethernet again looks like an excellent fit as an
access technology.
This white paper describes how standards are developing
to provide Ethernet WAN connectivity and primarily focuses on the set of new
standards for Ethernet transport over public networks developed by ITU-T Study
Group 15 (SG15). It discusses the Ethernet services that are being considered
over public WANs; transport network models that can be used to support Ethernet
services; Ethernet-based user network interfaces (UNIs) and network-to-network
interfaces (NNIs) required for transport network equipment to carry Ethernet
services; Operations and Maintenance (OAM) capabilities; and protection and
restoration technologies that can be used to guarantee carrier-grade service
reliability for Ethernet WAN services. [published: July 2005]
An Introduction to Transport
Networks for Telecommunications Abstract: This white
paper provides a general introduction to telecommunications transport networks,
which are the backbone of the modern telephone and Internet infrastructure. The
paper examines them in the context of geographical classification, and
functional layer classification. The paper includes a brief look at broadband
access technologies, since current transport network capacity will only grow
substantially if subscribers are able to access the network for higher
bandwidth services. A thorough list of the standards bodies relevant to
transport networks is also provided. [published: July 2005]
Operations and Maintenance
Function for Ethernet Networks Abstract: Ethernet was
originally designed as a LAN protocol for use in enterprise and home
networking. Among the main goals of Ethernet were simplicity, plug and play
functionality and lower CAPEX and OPEX cost. Due to the success of Ethernet in
the LAN, network operators and carriers are interested in using it in the
WAN/MAN to realize similar cost reductions. However, to be used in
carrier-class networks, Ethernet requires additional functionality. Among the
main functions required are Operations and Maintenance (OAM).
OAM refers to
capabilities of detection, notification, verification and localization of
failures, including hard failures (such as link cut) detected by the PHY layer
and soft failures (such as memory corruption of a bridge) that cannot be
detected by the PHY layer. OAM functionality is essential for carriers to
reduce OPEX and to keep their service level agreements (SLA).
This
PMC-Sierra white paper outlines the various standards that have been developed
for Ethernet OAM, as well as ongoing efforts to bring OAM functionality to
Ethernet networks in order to make Ethernet a viable option for WAN/MAN
deployment. [published: July 2005]
Resilient Packet Ring (RPR)
Technology Abstract: The two basic motivations
behind RPR are: 1) more reliable data communications and 2) extending life of
the current telecommunications networks. On the data communications side, there
was a desire for a broadband MAN/WAN protocol that used rings to provide higher
reliability. On the telecommunications side, there was a desire to extend the
concept of a TDM add/drop multiplexer to the packet world. [published: May
2005]
In-Service T1/E1
Performance Monitoring Abstract: T1 and E1 access
networks form a strategically important part of a carrier's service offering.
Their already large installed base continues to grow as more and more business
customers adopt T1 and E1 for broadband connectivity. Efficient supervision and
maintenance of these networks is essential for carriers. In particular,
continuous in-service monitoring has become critical as more and more T1 and E1
connections are provided to customers based upon contractual quality of service
guarantees in the form of Service Level Agreements (SLA).
This
paper describes how carriers currently implement in-service performance
monitoring and fault localization on existing T1/E1 circuits using dedicated
overlay networks. It identifies how integration of this functionality into the
next generations of transport equipment provides increased operational
efficiencies that translate to cost savings for carriers. It describes the
standardized mechanisms used to support enhanced in-service performance
monitoring for T1 and E1 paths and how these will be implemented in the next
generations of T1/E1 framing devices. [published: April 2005]
Generic Framing Procedure (GFP)
Abstract: GFP was developed to allow efficient transport of packet
data through SONET / SDH networks, making use of the new virtual concatenation
and LCAS technologies for creating flexible-sized transport channels.
[published: April 2005]
A Tutorial on SONET / SDH Automatic Protection Switching (APS)
Abstract: The simplest class of mechanism for network survivability in
the event of failure on a network element or link is automatic protection
switching (APS). APS schemes involve reserving a protection channel (dedicated
or shared) with the same capacity as the channel or facility to be protected.
This white paper provides an overview of the different types of protection
switching available with SONET / SDH networks, focusing on technologies that
automatically work at the level of either the SONET (SDH) Line (Multiplex
Section) or Path. [published: Feb 2005]
Application of Message Assisted Protection
Switching (MAPS) to APS Architectures Abstract: This
paper describes how the Message Assisted Protection Switching (MAPS) features
that are built into PMC-Sierra devices can be used to reduce the cost of
implementation and to speed traffic restoration in known Automatic Protection
Switching (APS) architectures. [published: Feb 2005]
A Tutorial on
SONET / SDH Abstract: This PMC-Sierra white paper
presents a tutorial overview of the SONET / SDH technology widely deployed in
today's telecommunications network. [published: March 2005]
Evolving Efficient
Interconnects for High Density LIUs Abstract: T1/E1
Mapper/Multiplexer devices have traditionally been connected to the T1/E1 lines
via clock and data interfaces. These interfaces have been simple, efficient and
easy to route on a circuit board. More recently, LIU densities have increased
from singles and doubles to quads, octals and beyond following a simple
doubling approach. The density progression of Multiplexer/Mapper bundles has
had to follow multiples of 21 or 28 ports for PDH, SONET and SDH networks.
Recent SONET/SDH Mapper and Multiplexer integration has enabled 84/63 port
mappers and 3 x M13 multiplexers in a single package. This paper illustrates
the potential problems at the Mapper-LIU interface when using a clock and data
interface and the system cost advantages possible with a higher speed, lower
pin count alternative. [published: June 2004]
Flexible Bandwidth Services with
DSL Bonding Abstract: This paper reviews the service
requirements and topologies for bonded DSL. It describes DSL bonding techniques
and compares the common approaches for various DSL technologies. Of these
approaches, IMA (Inverse Multiplexing for ATM) has wide applicability to DSL
technologies, builds upon the most commonly deployed layer 2 access technique-
ATM, and provides an immediate solution to service providers' and customers'
requirements. In particular, IMA-over-SHDSL is gaining wide traction with DSLAM
vendors and service providers as a flexible, available solution to business
customer requirements and to transport problems for subtended DSLAMs.
[published: August 2002]
Ethernet Over SONET Abstract:
This White Paper describes the use of the new ITU.G7041 GFP and ITU G.7042 LCAS
standards to provide Ethernet leased line service over SONET Virtual
Concatenation.
[published: February 2002]
Ethernet Over SONET - Chinese
Translation
URL-Based Switching Abstract: This paper discusses the
requirements for switching packets based on Layer 7 information content, such
as URL data. URL-based packet switching allows better management of server
based applications and improves the performance and reliability of Internet
services.
[published: February 2001]
Toward Content-Based
Classification Abstract: The rapid growth of Internet
usage means that an ever-increasing number of people have access to a wide
range of Internet services, including entertainment, special interest group
content, news, secure business transactions, data storage, shared file access
and information exchanges. This paper examines the importance of packet
classification and content processing in such networking applications.
[published: February 2001]
Network Convergence of Voice, Data and
Video Abstract: This paper discusses how the network
infrastructures of telecommunications service providers are evolving, driven by
the need for cost-effective deployment and management of new and existing
services such as public and private telephony, leased line, Frame Relay and
ATM.
[published: January 2000]
A New Architecture for Switch and Router
Design Abstract: This paper discusses the architecture
of large ATM switches, Frame Relay switches and IP routers used by network
service providers and telecom carriers to build the core of the Internet.
[published: December 1999]
Density Solutions with TEMUX and FREEDM-84
Abstract: This paper introduces PMC-Sierra's TEMUX and FREEDM-84
chipset, a highly integrated standard product chip set designed to satisfy
requirements of high density port cards. After an overview of the TEMUX and
FREEDM-84 devices, the paper provides an analysis of the driving need for
density and describes how the features of the TEMUX and FREEDM-84 meet these
requirements.
[published: October 1999]
VORTEX Chip Set
Abstract: This paper introduces PMC-Sierra's VORTEX chipset, designed
from the ground up to satisfy the requirements of Digital Subscriber Line
Access Multiplexers-DSLAMs. The requirements driving the DSLAM market are
analyzed and the features of the VORTEX chip set to meet these requirements are
described. The discussion then expands to include third generation CDMA
wireless equipment (3G Wireless) and multi-service access platforms capable of
supporting ATM, frame and TDM interfaces.
[published: July 1999]
Wireless Infrastructure
Enabling Distributed Base Station Architectures with CPRI
Abstract: Wireless operators are increasingly challenged to support a diverse array of emerging broadband, data-oriented mobile services. Simultaneously, they must find ways to reduce capital and operational costs of the networks that will deliver both new and existing services. Two major equipment trends are beginning to emerge as enablers for deploying more cost-effective, next-generation wireless access networks:
- Distributed base stations using Remote Radio Heads (RRHs); and
- Vendor-driven open standards for next-generation base stations.
As a leading contributor to both of these trends, the Common Public Radio Interface (CPRI) industry initiative has developed an open, publicly available specification that standardizes the digital interface to RRHs and enables the realization of this exciting new base station deployment topology. This white paper will:
- Describe the distributed base station concept, RRHs and the many benefits that this new network architecture can bring for wireless operators
- Introduce CPRI and illustrate how it fuels the growing paradigm shift to distributed base stations
- Explore the features of the CPRI protocol in detail.
[published: Febryary 2006]
Multi-Carrier WCDMA Basestation Design
Considerations - Amplifier Linearization and Crest Factor Control
Abstract: This paper presents issues to be considered when designing
multi-carrier WCDMA basestations. Two topics will be the main focus of this
discussion; the power amplifier linearization and the peak-to-average power
reduction of a multi-carrier WCDMA signal, both of which are important for
efficient operation of wideband power amplifiers and cost-effective design of
the overall basestation. WCDMA signal characterization, technology selection,
linearization, and peak reduction methods are discussed.
[published: May
2002]
FTTH /PON
Introduction to IEEE 802.3av 10Gbit/s Ethernet Passive Optical Networks (10G EPON)
Abstract:
Providing the "triple play" services of voice, video, and high-speed data access is an important way for carriers to increase their revenue and compete with other access providers such as the CATV operators. For both telephone network providers and CATV providers, the most flexible and future-proof medium for providing triple play services is fiber, with its virtually unlimited bandwidth availability. Since providing a direct optical connection between the CO and each subscriber is cost prohibitive, most optical access systems share a passive optical network (PON) among multiple subscribers. The existing 1 Gbit/s IEEE 802.3ah Ethernet PON (EPON) and ITU-T G.984 2.5 Gbit/s PON (GPON) are currently being deployed. While these protocols provide high speed data, IPTV and VoIP access, more bandwidth is required for high definition switched digital video over Internet Protocol television (IPTV). This white paper provides a tutorial overview of the IEEE 802.3av 10Gbit/s Ethernet PON (10G EPON) standards, including the ways in which it differs from EPON.
[published: January 2009]
10G EPON Brings Advantages to the Fiber Access Network
Abstract:
As the deployment of Fiber to the Home (FTTH) technologies in the access network accelerates, vendors and technology innovators are looking ahead to solve next-generation applications' bandwidth requirements. These applications, such as high-definition IPTV delivery and multimedia distribution systems, will demand far greater bandwidth than current broadband access technologies provide. One attractive new option is 10 Gigabit Ethernet Passive Optical Network (10G EPON) technology. It offers a ten-fold leap in bandwidth to 10 gigabits per second in the broadband access network over fiber while providing core protocol compatibility with current 1G EPON solutions.
The 10G EPON draft specification, IEEE 802.3av, released in late 2007, is currently in final review with ratification expected in mid-2009. This standard builds on compatibility with the previous EPON standard. Since the standard focuses narrowly on changes to the PHY layer and the technical aspects of the specification are not expected to change during the approval process, vendors can move forward confidently using the current specification as a basis for product development. It is expected that the industry will be ready and products will be mature enough for widespread deployments based on 10G EPON to occur by 2010.
[published: June 2008]
The Importance of Dynamic Bandwidth Allocation in GPON Networks
Abstract:
This article describes Bandwidth Allocation in the PON network and highlights the advantages of Dynamic Bandwidth Allocation (DBA).
A well-defined DBA algorithm can significantly improve network performance, provide a means of flexibly tailoring network responsiveness and enable a service
provider to generate more revenue from their FTTH networks without boosting raw bandwidth by increasing the percentage of acceptable oversubscription.
[published: Feb 2008]
Introduction to Broadband Passive Optical Networks Abstract: Providing the triple play services of voice, video, and high-speed data access is an important
way for carriers to increase their revenue and compete with other access providers such as the
CATV operators. For both telephone network providers and CATV providers, the most flexible
and future-proof medium for providing triple play services is fiber, with its virtually unlimited
bandwidth availability. Since providing a direct optical connection between the CO and each
subscriber is cost prohibitive, most optical access systems share a passive optical network
(PON) among multiple subscribers. PON decreases the real estate of the CO, the labor cost
involved in fiber access deployment, and length of fiber plant to maintain. This white paper
provides some background on fiber-based broadband access technologies and a tutorial
overview of the two most popular very high-speed PON access network standards: the ITU-T
G.984 series Gigabit PON (GPON) and IEEE 802.3ah Ethernet PON (EPON) standards. GPON
has been selected by most North America and European telephone network providers, while
EPON is currently being mass deployed by some major Asian telephone network providers.[published: October 2006]
EPON Ushers In a New Generation of
Bandwidth-Intensive Applications Abstract: Based on fiber-optics, EPON technology
offers the speeds of Gigabit Ethernet, making highdefinition video and data/voice/video lines not only
possible but practical. This white paper describes how EPON works.[published: May 2006]
GPON FTTH Market and Technology
Overview Abstract: Gigabit PON is an attractive FTTH broadband access network technology because it meets the
needs of carriers world-wide. GE-PON has successfully demonstrated this approach and is
being deployed in high volume in Asia, while the GPON standard will provide similar
capabilities for carriers in North America. It includes all of the ingredients for market success -
a consumer base that is eager to adopt a much faster and more comprehensive set of high-speed
services, a set of carriers ready to offer those services and an infrastructure of silicon, and
system vendors that are capable of developing and deploying gigabit PON technology. PMCSierra
is leveraging its experience in GE-PON based gigabit FTTH to also bring GPON-based
products to the market.
[published: May 2006]
Ethernet in the First Mile:
New Ethernet Capabilities Enable
Low-cost Triple-Play Services Abstract: This paper explores one of two technological solutions needed to solve the current challenge of
how best to deploy high-volume, high-bandwidth access to the home and premises. The
evolution of Ethernet and the adoption of the IEEE 802.3ah Ethernet in the First Mile standard
and the ITU-T G.984 GPON standard have made Ethernet the preferred protocol for FTTH
(Fibre to the Home) deployment. Ethernet's high performance and low cost make it ideal for the
access network. Ethernet also provides a guarantee for delivery of services (classification, QoS,
and DBA), which is especially critical in triple play.
[published: May 2006]
Digital Home
Next-Generation Residential Gateways Abstract: This white paper describes the carriers' vision for the digital home and the multiservice RGs
that will make this vision possible. It also describes the integrated, multifunction system-on-achip
( SoC) that is at the heart of the next-generation multiservice RG.[published: May 2006]
Delivering PSTN Service Quality with ATAs Abstract: As broadband services roll out to an ever-larger share of households, PSTN replacement services based on VoIP and broadband access are becoming more pervasive. Service providers - both incumbents and new competitors - are using Analog Terminal Adaptors (ATAs) to rapidly deliver voice service to "the broadband masses". The ATA enables service providers to deliver a PSTN-like service directly over a customers' broadband access connection. This white paper explains the ATA and describes some of the essential building blocks and features that enable an ATA to replicate PSTN service quality levels.[published: November 2005]
Laser Printers & MFPs
Processor Bus Fundamentals for
SoC Design Abstract: This paper describes some of the
common characteristics of today's processor busses and provides an overview of
the top three major public bus standards (PCI Express, HyperTransport, and
RapidIO). It also provides a brief overview of internal bus standards (Fast
Device Bus (FDB), AMBA, and OCP) and describes some of the challenges that
designers need to consider before implementing a bus in their design. Also
included is a brief summary of how some of PMC-Sierra's newer SoC products use
processor busses.
[published: March 2005]
Why You Should Use MIPS®
Processors? Abstract: MIPS, as an open standard
processor architecture, is the equivalent of Linux in the operating system
world. There are a wealth of device vendors and support tools to make designing
with MIPS-based
TM microprocessors a rewarding experience.
[published: May
2004]
Microprocessors
Processor Bus Fundamentals for SoC Design
Abstract: This paper describes some of the
common characteristics of today's processor busses and provides an overview of
the top three major public bus standards (PCI Express, HyperTransport, and
RapidIO). It also provides a brief overview of internal bus standards (Fast
Device Bus (FDB), AMBA, and OCP) and describes some of the challenges that
designers need to consider before implementing a bus in their design. Also
included is a brief summary of how some of PMC-Sierra's newer SoC products use
processor busses.
[published: March 2005]
Why You Should Use MIPS®
Processors? Abstract: MIPS, as an open standard
processor architecture, is the equivalent of Linux in the operating system
world. There are a wealth of device vendors and support tools to make designing
with MIPS-based
TM microprocessors a rewarding experience.
[published: May
2004]
SERDES
Designing Multi-Gigabit Serial Backplanes
with High Speed SERDES Solutions Abstract: Old design
"rules of thumb" are no longer valid for multi-gigabit backplane design
involving high speeds and fast edge rates. For years, backplane-based systems
evolved by moving to wider buses and faster signal clock rates. However, as
designs reached the 1 Gbit/s range, it became impossible to pass data reliably
over parallel buses because signal skew and load problems increased. Shifting
from parallel buses to serial interconnects, and using silicon
serializer-deserializer (SERDES) solutions, backplanes could deal with a serial
stream that combines data and clock in the same signal. As data rates reach
beyond the 1 Gbit/s level, new problems of signal integrity arise that must be
compensated for. This white paper describes these signal impairments and
highlights technological solutions that aid in the design task.
[published:
November 2002]