Global Internet traffic continues to grow rapidly with video services driving exponential growth in both broadband and wireless networks. Most high performance servers have 10 Gigabit Ethernet (10GE). A growing number of users are choosing 10GBase-T interfaces with twisted pair cables in place of SFP+ modules and optical cables. Highly integrated switch chipsets from Broadcom, Intel and Marvell combined with quad port 10GBase-T PHYs are quickly reducing the cost of 10GE switching solutions.
In 2007, when the first 10GBase-T PHYs started shipping there were several startups developing 10GBase-T solutions. Following significant consolidation, semiconductor vendors continue to make significant investments, including lower power devices for 10GBase-T using 28nm technology. The integration of controller/MAC and PHY devices is presenting both challenges and opportunities to 10GBase-T PHY vendors and adapter vendors with controller/MAC solutions. The number of 10GBase-T vendors has dropped, but the competition is just as intense.
The introduction of Intel Romley processors has caused a step change in the demand for 10Gbit/s interfaces on servers. 10GE is already used in data centers with the majority of connections based on SFP+ modules with optical cables. Twisted pair cables are widely used for GE, and 10GBase-T promises the same benefits with low-cost cables and auto-negotiation for 10GE. With growing demand and the latest 10GBase-T PHY devices we can expect the number of 10GBase-T ports sold to exceed the number optical 10GE ports during 2013 or 2014.
The current generation of 40nm devices is already delivering adequate power consumption and performance. The next generation of 28nm devices is in development and promises to deliver greater integration, lower latency and lower power. Several vendors already have both controller/MAC and PHY technologies. Other vendors must work with partners or acquire these technologies. The success of vendors and the 10GBase-T market in general will depend on the 40nm devices and solutions covered in this report and on a successful transition to 28nm for the next generation of 10GBase-T PHY and integrated controller/MAC and 10GBase-T PHY devices.
10GBase-T Hits the Streets details and analyzes 10GBase-T PHY devices, controller/MAC devices and 10GBase-T adapters, identifying the key requirements and highlighting the advantages they hold for equipment manufacturers and users. It also reviews vendor strategies and surveys component features, performance and flexibility. It covers more than 40 devices and adapters and profiles 10 vendors in this important market.
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Companies profiled in this report include: Applied Micro Circuits Corp. (Nasdaq: AMCC); Aquantia Corp.; Broadcom Corp. (Nasdaq: BRCM); Chelsio Communications Inc.; Emulex Corp. (NYSE: ELX); Intel Corp. (Nasdaq: INTC); Marvell Technology Group Ltd. (Nasdaq: MRVL); Oracle Corp. (Nasdaq: ORCL); Solarflare Communications Inc.; and Tehuti Networks Ltd.
