Bi-directional USB-C Active Cable Reference Design with Integrated Retimer and Power Delivery

Analogix Semiconductor, Inc. today announced the availability of Times Square RD1011, its high-performance reference design for USB-C™ to USB-C™ active cable with true bi-directional support, capable of connecting a USB-C source to a USB-C device across multi-meter distances.

"Times Square's clever architecture will extend the system performance across a thin and powerful USB-C cable to display monitors, highly integrated docking stations, and VR HMDs.

Leveraging Analogix's expertise in high-speed signal management, USB-C port controller architecture, and proven SRIS and LTTPR retimer technology, RD1011 offers best-in-class performance with highest interoperability, lowest power consumption at under 1.5W, and lowest bill of materials (BOM) cost featuring:

• Dual retimer architecture with connection via a 4 meter twisted-pair cable and one paddle card at each end of the cable to maximize length without sacrificing performance;
• Bi-directional solution for extending USB-C, USB 3.2 10 Gbps Gen2 or DisplayPort 8.1 Gbps HBR3 source output over long distances;
• SRIS architecture for true USB 3.2 compliance, as well as transparent and non-transparent (LTTPR) architecture for DisplayPort 1.4a interoperability;
• Fully functional e-marker controller with Power Deliver (PD 3.0) handling USB-C power contract negotiation and SOP`/SOP`` messages.

"We're pleased to be further expanding our industry-leading signal conditioning technology to pertinent and fundamental applications," said Michael Ching, vice president of marketing at Analogix. "Times Square's clever architecture will extend the system performance across a thin and powerful USB-C cable to display monitors, highly integrated docking stations, and VR HMDs.

"We see growing demand for USB 3.2 USB-C to USB-C active cables and Analogix's reference design is the framework that enables such connections with optimal performance," said Robert Lin, Head of ABG US Sales and Support at Foxlink.

RD1011 is sampling now and product demonstrations are taking place during this week's CES® 2020, at Analogix Exhibitor Suite 30-136 in The Venetian, Las Vegas.