MACOM Introduces Industry's First PCIe® 7.0 Linear Equalizers, Extending the Reach of Copper at 128 GT/s

Core Insights - MACOM Technology Solutions Inc. has announced the industry's first PCIe 7.0-optimized linear equalizer and cross-point switch devices, enhancing its portfolio for both optical and copper interconnects [1][2] - The new devices, MAEQ-39964 and MAEQ-39966, are optimized for 128 GT/s operation and support next-generation protocols including PCIe 7.0, PCIe 6.0, and CXL, which will enable longer reach and higher performance for copper-based interconnects [1][2] Product Details - The MAEQ-39964 is a four-channel linear equalizer that supports data rates from 2.5 NRZ to 128 Gbps PAM4, specifically designed for Active Copper Cables (ACCs) [3] - The MAEQ-39966 is also a four-channel linear equalizer with integrated 2×2 switching, suitable for system and server applications, supporting the same data rates [4] - Both new PCIe 7.0 equalizer solutions are available in a 91-pin BGA package and will be showcased at OFC 2026 in Los Angeles from March 17 to 19, 2026 [4] Market Application - These equalizers are designed to meet the signal integrity performance requirements of emerging PCIe 7.0 systems, extending the reach of passive copper cables while maintaining full protocol transparency [2] - They are particularly well-suited for applications in data centers, high-performance test and measurement equipment, as well as server and storage systems [2]