IXF1104 Quad-Port 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet Media Access Controller

5.7Optical Module Interface

This section describes the connection of the IXF1104 ports to an Optical Module Interface and details the minimal connections that are supported for correct operation. The registers used for write control and read status information are documented.

The Optical Module Interface allows the IXF1104 a seamless connection to the Small Form Factor Optical Modules (SFP) that form the system’s physical media connection, eliminating the need for any FPGAs or CPUs to process data. All required optical module information is available to the system CPU through the IXF1104 CPU interface, leading to a more integrated, reliable, and cost- effective system.

The IXF1104 supports all the functions required for the Small Form Factor pluggable Multi-Source Agreement (MSA).

There are specific mechanical and electrical requirements for the size, form factor, and connections supported on all Optical Module Interfaces. There are also specific requirements for each Optical Module Interface that supports a particular media requirement or interface configuration. These requirements are detailed in the relevant specifications or manufacturers’ datasheets.

5.7.1IXF1104-Supported Optical Module Interface Signals

To describe the Optical Module Interface operation, three supported signal subgroups are required, allowing a more explicit definition of each function and implementation. The three subgroups are as follows:

High-Speed Serial Interface

Low-Speed Status Signaling Interface

I²C Module Configuration Interface

Table 30 provides descriptions for IXF1104-to-SFP optical module connection signals.

Table 30. IXF1104-to-SFP Optical Module Interface Connections (Sheet 1 of 2)

IXF1104

SFP Signal

Description

Notes

Signal Names

Names

 

 

 

 

 

 

TX_P_0:3

TD+

Transmit Data, Differential LVDS

Output from the IXF1104

 

 

 

 

TX_N_0:3

TD-

Transmit Data, Differential LVDS

Output from the IXF1104

 

 

 

 

RX_P_0:3

RD+

Receive Data, Differential LVDS

Input to the IXF1104

 

 

 

 

RX_N_0:3

RD-

Receive Data, Differential LVDS

Input to the IXF1104

 

 

 

 

I2C_CLK

MOD-DEF1

I2C_CLK output from the IXF1104

Output from the IXF1104

(SCL)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I2C_DATA_0:3

MOD-DEF2

I2C_DATA I/O (SDA)

Input/Output

MOD_DEF_0:3

MOD-DEF0

MOD_DEF_0 is TTL Low level during

Input to the IXF1104

normal operation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

106

Datasheet

Document Number: 278757

Revision Number: 007

Revision Date: March 25, 2004

Page 106
Image 106
Intel manual 1 IXF1104-Supported Optical Module Interface Signals, IXF1104 SFP Signal Description Signal Names

IXF1104 specifications

The Intel IXF1104 is a cutting-edge Network Interface Controller (NIC) designed to meet the needs of high-speed communication in modern networking environments. As the demand for bandwidth-intensive applications continues to grow, Intel's IXF1104 is engineered to deliver exceptional performance, reliability, and scalability, making it an ideal choice for data centers and enterprise networks.

One of the main features of the IXF1104 is its support for high-speed Ethernet connectivity, providing up to 100 Gbps throughput. This capability allows organizations to handle large amounts of data traffic efficiently, accommodating everything from cloud computing to big data analytics. The NIC utilizes advanced packet processing technology which ensures minimal latency, enhancing the overall user experience.

The IXF1104 is built on a robust architecture that integrates Intel's latest processing technologies. It incorporates a multi-core processing engine that allows for parallel processing of network packets, improving the handling of simultaneous network requests. This architecture also supports offloading features, freeing up CPU resources for other critical tasks, which optimizes system performance.

In terms of technologies, the IXF1104 supports a variety of standards including Ethernet and Fiber Channel, making it versatile across different networking environments. Its compatibility with industry-standard networking protocols ensures that it can easily integrate into existing frameworks, facilitating seamless upgrades and expansions.

Another significant characteristic of the IXF1104 is its energy efficiency. With Intel’s focus on sustainability, this NIC is designed to consume less power relative to its performance output, thereby reducing overall operational costs for organizations. It employs dynamic power management features that adjust power usage based on demand, which is especially beneficial in large-scale deployments.

Additionally, security features are woven into the IXF1104 design, protecting sensitive data from potential threats. Hardware-based security functions, including encryption capabilities and secure boot processes, ensure that the NIC can safeguard data integrity against unauthorized access.

Overall, the Intel IXF1104 stands out in the crowded NIC market by offering high-performance capabilities, energy efficiency, and robust security features. Its combination of advanced technologies and characteristics positions it as a strategic asset for modern networks, empowering organizations to achieve their connectivity and performance goals in an increasingly data-driven world.