Four-channel LVDS reDriver with output pre-emphasis
The Texas Instruments DS15BR401TSQ/NOPB is a 4-channel LVDS buffer and reDriver designed to restore signal integrity on lossy backplanes, cables, or long PCB traces. It accepts CML, LVDS, or LVPECL inputs and retransmits clean LVDS outputs with programmable output pre-emphasis, compensating for interconnect attenuation up to the 2 Gbps data rate per channel. The 1.0 ns propagation delay keeps total link latency low. Each of the four channels draws from a shared 175 mA supply rail, so the total supply current for the device is fixed regardless of how many channels are active.
The NOPB suffix indicates the lead-free, RoHS-compliant finish — the same die as the original part, just in a green package. The two are electrically identical; the NOPB variant is the current production version.
Signal conditioning for lossy interconnects
Output pre-emphasis boosts the high-frequency content of the LVDS output edge, counteracting skin-effect and dielectric losses of PCB traces. This feature helps close the link with margin at 2 Gbps over long backplane traces. The 3 pF input capacitance is low enough to not load the upstream driver beyond its specification.