Inverting the SerDes Link Design Flow Process

Abstract: The traditional SerDes link simulation process begins with the extraction of printed circuit board (PCB) physical stripline and via models, followed by channel modeling and link simulation. We invert this simulation flow by first creating link performance curves across an array of hypothetical channels defined with specially-developed, high level, equation-based models; limited physical extraction is later undertaken to relate PCB channel implementation to these performance curves. These curves allow us to determine the system-level SerDes channel requirements and to become better informed in choosing PCB technologies for lower cost and easier manufacturability. The inverted modeling process is very efficient, allowing for the rapid identification and avoidance of problematic channel topologies and the study of other potentially useful channel designs.