Adam Healey, Distinguished Engineer, LSI
Pervez Aziz, Distinguished Engineer, LSI

This paper will examine closed-loop adaptation of an equalization system distributed between the transmitter and receiver and spanning a link consisting of electrical and optical sections without re-timing. First, the simulation model and supporting hardware measurements that are the basis of the study will be reviewed. The model will then be employed to characterize link performance at 17.0 GBd as a function of transmitter equalization in a variety of link configurations to highlight the potential benefits of transmitter adaptation. Finally, the paper will discuss considerations for the back-channel communications path to the transmitter and the algorithm that would utilize it.