Broadcom device eyes multi-protocol datacom service

The BCM8228 VariRate variable-rate transceiver/mapper from Broadcom Corp. is claimed to allow system OEMs to develop single linecard solutions that feature a host of transmission protocols and speeds from the same physical link.

It features the VariRate technology and integrated SONET/SDH mapper and demapper functionality, and provides interfaces at data rates ranging from 155Mbps up through 2.67Gbps.

The services supported by the device include telecom services at OC-3 (155Mbps), OC-12 (622Mbps), and OC-48 (2.5Gbps); datacom services at GbE (1Gbps); and SAN Fiber Channel services (1Gbps and 2Gbps).

The transceiver/mapper features <4mUI rms when operating in OC-48 mode, and can be powered with a single 1.8V supply or a dual 1.8/3.3V supply. It is housed within a 196-pin, 15-by-15mm BGA package and features low-power dissipation <1.1W.

Samples are available at $150 (1,000-up).