FCI's ExaMAX connector technology reaches 40 Gb/s

Photocoupler

FCI, a leading name in the field of connectors and interconnect systems, has introduced a groundbreaking solution with its AirMax VS high-speed backplane connector technology. This innovation is set to become the backbone for next-generation 40 Gb/s transmission systems. The new ExaMAX connector design brings together advanced termination techniques that significantly reduce terminal antenna effects and ground resonance, along with a compact form factor and optimized PCB packaging. These features make system designs more straightforward and adaptable for users.

The ExaMAX plug-in interface features a unique contact structure that ensures two reliable contact points while minimizing the over-mating portion of the terminal head. This helps eliminate unnecessary insertion loss and resonance. The precise terminal injection molding process ensures balanced differential pairs across the entire signal path and on a complementary ground plane. This optimized design reduces unwanted ground resonance, provides stable impedance, and maintains symmetry, resulting in minimal crosstalk throughout the connector.

"Designing this unique plug interface required overcoming multiple challenges," said Danny Morlion, CTO of FCI. "Not only did we need to eliminate antenna resonance from the terminal head, but we also had to ensure two reliable contact points and sufficient contact force under extreme mating conditions. Extensive signal integrity and mechanical analysis were conducted to validate performance, durability, and reliability, ensuring the connector can support 40 Gb/s channel performance."

Beyond its innovative plug-in interface, ExaMAX technology also delivers compact design advantages similar to those found in AirMax® connectors. It includes low-cost planar crimp blocks, a small PCB footprint, and optimized airflow characteristics. The enhanced PCB packaging allows for larger column spacing in high-bandwidth packages, enabling pin ground vias to boost signal bandwidth and suppress crosstalk between adjacent column pairs.

"Our goal was to achieve the best balance between performance, density, and ease of use while keeping application costs as low as possible," added Morlion. "The ExaMAX connectors are designed to meet the evolving needs of high-speed systems and offer a flexible platform for future data rates up to 40 Gb/s."

ExaMAX technology is suitable for a wide range of system interconnect applications, including backplane, midplane, mezzanine, orthogonal, coplanar, and cable I/O connectors. It supports a variety of high-speed signal solutions and integrates seamlessly with existing AirMax® components, offering system designers greater flexibility and efficiency in achieving optimal performance at a competitive cost.

At the Design Congress 2013 in Santa Clara, California, from January 29–30, 2013, FCI will showcase the signal integrity of its ExaMAXTM high-density backplane connectors. Visitors to booth 516 will witness live demonstrations of backplane and cable I/O connectors operating at 25 Gb/s, meeting all requirements of the OIF 25G-LR specification.