Introduction to the BCM56070
This document outlines the essential hardware design guidelines for the Broadcom BCM56070 family of devices. It provides detailed information on the electrical characteristics of high-speed external I/O interfaces, including connection diagrams and routing examples where applicable.
The BCM56070 integrates advanced SerDes cores, such as Merlin (TSC4-MC) and Falcon (TSC4-FC), designed for high-performance networking applications. It also includes a PCIe core for host processor communication.
For a comprehensive understanding of the device's functional aspects, refer to the official BCM56070 data sheet.
Key Design Considerations
- SerDes Cores: Details on TSC cores, including Merlin and Falcon, their configurations, and operational modes (QMODE and TSC mode).
- Clock Requirements: Guidance on reference clock connections, including chip reference clock and PCIE_REFCLK.
- Power Supply: Information on power supply filtering and fail-safe requirements.
- PCB Layout: Best practices for PCB layout, including guidelines for 25G, 10G, and PCIe interfaces, as well as heat sink selection and attachment.
- Debug and Bring-up: Recommendations for debugging and initial system bring-up.
About Broadcom
Broadcom Inc. is a global technology leader that provides industry-leading semiconductor and infrastructure software solutions. For more information, visit www.broadcom.com.
