The MicroTCA specification provides a method for integrating Advanced Mezzanine Cards (AMCs) into a self-contained chassis/backplane. The AMCs are defined by a base specification that outlines the mechanicals, port descriptions, management and power requirements, etc. A group of subsidiary specifications maps different fabric protocols to AMCs including Gigabit Ethernet (GbE), 10 Gigabit Ethernet (10GbE), PCI Express (PCIe) and Serial RapidIO (SRIO). Depending upon the application requirements, one fabric might be preferred over another. Through its flexible MCH architecture, CorEdge is able to satisfy any customers’ fabric requirements.
The networking ports of an AMC are divided into three distinct regions: Common Options, Fat Pipes, and Extended Options. The Common Options region consists of Ports 0 – 3 with 0 and 1 typically supporting GbE and 2 and/or 3 supporting SATA/SAS connections. CorEdge’s MCH supports these protocols through its base module GbE switch and PCI Express/SATA/SAS clock daughter card. The Fat Pipe region, Ports 4 -11, is supported by a second daughter card to the MCH called the Fabric Module.
The Fabric Module connects to Tongues 3 and 4 of the MCH and
provides x4 lane connections for up to 12 AMCs in a platform.
Although MicroTCA is architected to support up to 12.5Gbps
single lane transfer rates, today’s implementations
are focused on 1Gbps, 2.5Gbps, or 3.125Gbps single lane transfer
rates in order to provide up to 20Gbps (when load balancing
across two MCHs) data rates to AMCs.
In order to support the different application requirements, CorEdge Networks is developing a family of fabric modules for the MCH. These modules include the following three products:
• 10GbE Fabric Module (CEN-FAB-E): For use in edge telecommunications equipment, the 10GbE fabric module supports up to 10 AMCs.
• PCI Express Fabric Module (CEN-FAB-P): For use in embedded computing and access equipment, the PCI Express fabric supports up to 12 AMCs.
• Serial RapidIO Module (CEN-FAB-S): For use in cellular base stations and embedded computing, this module provides high speed, low latency sRIO connections to up to 12 AMCs
Each module mounts as a daughter card on top of the MCH base card in the PCB3a position. They can operate with or without a clock module present. If customized fabric modules are required, CorEdge Networks is willing to work with a customer to meet your application needs.
CorEdge Networks’ fabric modules are compliant with the PICMG MicroTCA Specification R1.0 adopted in July of 2006.
DocumentationThe following product collateral is available, please contact sales@coredgenetworks.com to receive this documentation:
- Fabric Module Data Sheet (PDF file)