MaxLinear Launches Annapurna 224G Scale-Up Retimer for AI Data Center Connectivity
MaxLinear has introduced the Annapurna 224G scale-up retimer, which provides up to 1.6Tbps connectivity for AI data centers. This retimer enhances copper backplanes and Active Electrical Cables (AECs) to operate at 224Gbps per lane using PAM4 signaling. Annapurna incorporates advanced signal processing to address challenges related to traditional copper channels, making it suitable for large-scale GPU fabrics. The product will be available in Q2 2026, as MaxLinear aims to capitalize on the projected 30 million unit demand for AEC and on-board retimers by 2029.
Theia Market Signal Identification - AI Assisted
MaxLinear has unveiled the Annapurna 224G scale-up retimer, which enables copper connectivity in AI data centers at 224Gbps per lane, achieving up to 1.6Tbps of bandwidth. The device uses PAM4 signaling and advanced signal processing techniques to overcome physical constraints of copper channels, making it viable for large-scale GPU fabrics.
Annapurna supports both eight-lane and sixteen-lane configurations and offers ultra-low latency and high power efficiency. Expected availability is in Q2 2026. The market for AEC and on-board retimers is anticipated to reach 30 million units by 2029, presenting a significant growth opportunity for MaxLinear.
Comments