模拟的新突破：150G的DAC

Core Viewpoint - IMEC has achieved a significant breakthrough in analog design with a 7-bit, 150 GSa/s DAC using PAM-4 modulation, targeting speeds of up to 300 Gb/s per channel, which paves the way for enhanced interconnect speeds in data centers and large-scale computing architectures [1][2]. Group 1: Technological Advancements - The DAC is built on IMEC's advanced 5nm FinFET CMOS platform, addressing the challenges of high-speed link design amid increasing data density from AI and cloud workloads [1][2]. - The new chip combines speed and energy efficiency, aiming for data rates exceeding 200 Gb/s per channel, with a long-term goal of reaching 400 Gb/s [1][2]. Group 2: Market Implications - Europe has lagged behind the US and Asian manufacturers in cutting-edge DAC and ADC development, but IMEC's announcement signals that local research and design can meet global OEM demands for large-scale data interconnects [2][3]. - The DAC's application environment is crucial, as it meets industry demands for multi-channel and 400 GbE developments, potentially serving as a foundation for future 300-400 GSa/s converters [2][3]. Group 3: Future Directions - IMEC plans to double the sampling rate to 300 GSa/s and increase bandwidth to over 100 GHz, indicating a clear direction for future development [3]. - This advancement provides a practical reference design rooted in European R&D for engineers working on analog-intensive high-speed interfaces, demonstrating that Europe can maintain a leading position in the analog IP domain [3].