Molex launches PCIe cabling system for open source computing project servers

Molex launches PCIe cabling system for open source computing project servers

•NearStack PCIe connector system and cable assemblies feature new direct-attach cable technology that improves signal integrity, reduces insertion loss, and reduces signal latency

•Developed in collaboration with members of the Open Source Compute Project, NearStack PCIe is a key component of next-generation servers

•Product range is available now and will be showcased at the 2022 Open Source Computing Project Summit

Lisle, IL - October 13, 2022 - Molex, a global electronics industry leader and connectivity innovator, announces the NearStack PCIe connector system and cable assemblies for next-generation servers. Developed in collaboration with members of the Open Compute Project (OCP), NearStack PCIe replaces traditional plug-in cable solutions to optimize signal integrity and improve system performance.

A standout feature of NearStack PCIe is the direct-contact shielded dual-conductor termination, eliminating the need for plug-in cards in the cable assembly. Unlike competing cable patch cords that terminate by manually soldering the cable to a PCB pad card, NearStack uses a fully automated cable termination process. This high-precision process improves manufacturing efficiency, repeatability and signal integrity.

"Thanks to its superior architecture, NearStack PCIe is ideal for enabling the development of next-generation PCIe Gen5 and Gen6 systems," said Bill Wilson, new product development manager, Enterprise Solutions, Molex. "The product is capable of 32-Gbps NRZ data rates, Empowering server OEMs to achieve unprecedented performance." 

Key components of open source computing projects

The Open Source Compute Project is a consortium of industry leaders committed to applying the best available technologies to the development of standardized hardware with high-speed and high-bandwidth capabilities. 

NearStack PCIe was defined by the Small Form Factor (SFF) Committee and adopted as standard SFF-TA-1026. The Open Compute Project proposes naming the technology "TA-1026" for use in server reference designs. NearStack PCIe is also included in the Open Compute Project Modular-Scalable I/O (M-XIO) specification and Modular-Full-width HPM form factor (M-FLW) as a next-generation OCP data center-modular hardware system (DC-MHS) product family.

As part of the open source SFF standard, the technology is available to second-source suppliers under a reasonable and non-discriminatory (RAND) license. NearStack PCIe is already licensed to second-source vendors with these licenses, and additional licenses are provided to multiple vendors. This strategy ensures interoperability between Molex and other suppliers while creating a strong supply chain system.

Mechanical design optimizes space and simplifies integration

Molex optimizes cable assemblies for efficient use of space and for safe, convenient connections. Smart, rugged mechanical features, along with an optional "angle exit" cable design, allow technicians to easily insert jumpers into dense panels. In addition to reducing space constraints, NearStack PCIe offers low-matching configurations to improve airflow management and minimize interference with adjacent components. 

NearStack PCIe further simplifies integration by supporting hybrid cables with a NearStack PCIe connector on one end and a traditional connector on the other. These connectors provide a simplified upgrade path for existing equipment, allowing customers to take advantage of new technologies immediately without redesigning or replacing existing hardware.

2022 Open Source Computing Project Global Summit  

•The 2022 Open Source Computing Project Summit (OCP 2022) will be held in San Jose, California, USA from October 18th to 20th. You are cordially invited to visit the Molex booth (Booth #B1) to visit the new cable connector components on display. Learn more about this innovative, industry-leading solution. 

•Watch three demos: Molex's advanced cooling solutions are new data center modular systems that form the foundation for next-generation OCP rack standards designed to meet future pluggable I/O devices and single-phase liquid immersion cooling systems needs.

Please visit the pavilion for an introduction on October 19 to learn more about the core role that SFF TA-1026 and NearStack PCIe play in the upcoming OCP DC-MHS standard.