Backplane connector delivers high performance and density at lower cost

Molex has introduced its new Impulse Orthogonal Direct Backplane Connector System, designed for high-density data centre applications. The new connector system supports data rates of 56Gbps NRZ and 112Gbps PAM4 with superior signal integrity. The 2mm column-to-column pitch of the Impulse system delivers high-speed connectivity in a compact size. The innovative signal interface improves insertion loss over traditional in-line interface, pushing resonance beyond 35GHz. “Data centres are expected to deliver ever-faster data rates. However, as speeds increase, insertion loss and ICR margin become issues,” said Bratislav Kostic, new product development manager, Molex. “Impulse orthogonal direct connectors offer exceptional signal integrity performance, improved airflow and cost savings by eliminating the need to build and install mid-plane connections.” The connector design provides an innovative contact interface in which all signal contacts are pre-loaded, positioned and protected in individual slots. Robust guiding features ensure proper connector alignment and mating. The OD portfolio of backplane connectors includes the Impact sub 25Gbps along with the Impact zX2 28Gbps, as well as the Impel 40Gbps and Impel Plus 56Gbps, in addition to the Impulse (56/112Gbps). All of these scalable solutions deliver stable channel impedance and help decrease system-level applied costs by eliminating the chassis mid-plane. “As data rates climb, data centres need easy scalability in equipment to minimise future infrastructure investments. Impulse orthogonal direct backplane connectors are forward compatible to meet future data rate needs without having to replace infrastructure,” adds Kostic.