The Broadcom PEX8717-CA80BC is a high-performance PCI Express (PCIe) Gen3 switch designed for demanding applications requiring high bandwidth and low latency. It provides connectivity solutions for devices in servers, workstations, and high-end embedded systems.

Applications

• Servers: Used in servers to expand PCIe Gen3 connectivity for high-performance add-in cards like GPUs, NVMe drives, and network adapters.
• Workstations: Employed in high-performance workstations to support multiple graphics cards, high-speed storage devices, and other peripherals.
• High-End Embedded Systems: Integrated into high-end embedded systems that require high-speed data transfer between various components.
• Storage Systems: Utilized in advanced storage systems to provide high-bandwidth connectivity between host processors and storage devices.

Features

• PCIe Gen3 Support: Compliant with PCI Express Gen3 specifications, offering data transfer rates up to 8GT/s per lane.
• 16 Lanes: Provides 16 lanes of PCIe connectivity, allowing for flexible configuration and connection of multiple devices.
• Non-Transparent Bridging (NTB): Supports NTB functionality for connecting multiple host systems or subsystems.
• Advanced Error Reporting: Features advanced error detection and reporting capabilities to ensure data integrity and system reliability.
• Low Latency: Designed for minimal latency, ensuring rapid data transfer and responsiveness.
• Flexible Port Configuration: Allows for flexible configuration of PCIe ports to adapt to different system requirements.

Benefits

• Increased Bandwidth: PCIe Gen3 support provides significantly increased bandwidth for demanding applications, improving overall system performance.
• Scalability: The 16 lanes of PCIe connectivity allow for scalable system designs, accommodating additional devices and functionality.
• Enhanced Reliability: Advanced error reporting and detection capabilities ensure data integrity and system reliability, minimizing downtime.
• Improved System Performance: Low latency design ensures rapid data transfer and responsiveness, improving overall system performance.
• Flexibility: Flexible port configuration allows for adaptation to different system requirements, providing greater design flexibility.

Additional Details

The PEX8717-CA80BC is typically packaged in a BGA (Ball Grid Array) package for surface mount assembly. It requires a stable power supply and appropriate thermal management to ensure reliable operation. This PCIe switch is designed to meet the stringent performance and reliability requirements of high-end server, workstation, and embedded applications that leverage the PCIe Gen3 standard.