Edge Finger Interconnect Cable Bypassing PCB Signal Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computing servers experience significant insertion loss due to signal routing through printed circuit boards, which affects the efficiency of processor-to-switch rack connections.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of interconnect cables with edge finger connectors that directly connect processor packages to small form-factor pluggable cases, bypassing the printed circuit board and reducing signal insertion loss by using elongate conductors and spring contacts for low insertion force connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If signal connection is routed through the printed circuit board, then the processor can be coupled to the network interface card, but significant insertion loss occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the signal path from the printed circuit board by implementing a direct cable connection between the processor package and the network interface card. The edge finger connector enables the signal to bypass the PCB routing entirely, eliminating the insertion loss associated with board traces while maintaining electrical connectivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary cable assembly with edge finger connectors that directly bridges the processor package and network interface card. This intermediary connection replaces the PCB routing path, providing a dedicated low-loss signal transmission channel while maintaining system integration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If external cables are used to connect server modules to the switch rack, then connectivity is achieved, but board space is consumed and signal loss occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the connection interface from the two-dimensional PCB surface to the three-dimensional space above the board by using edge finger connectors that extend from the processor package edge. This dimensional transition allows cables to connect directly without occupying valuable board real estate, freeing up space for other components.
3Device complexity
If the processor is coupled to the network interface card through the printed circuit board, then the system is integrated, but signal quality deteriorates due to insertion loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the signal path into distinct modular components: the processor package with edge finger connector, the cable assembly, and the network interface card connector. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system integration, with the cable providing a dedicated low-loss transmission path.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to an interconnect cable including a edge finger connector, and associated configurations and methods. The edge finger connector may be disposed at a first end of the interconnect cable and may connect the interconnect cable to an edge finger included in or coupled to a package substrate. The package substrate may be included in a processor package assembly, and a processor may be mounted on the substrate. The interconnect cable may include one or more elongate conductors, with contacts directly coupled to respective conductors. A second connector may be disposed at a second end of the interconnect cable, and may couple the interconnect cable to a small form-factor pluggable (SFP) case that is configured to connect the interconnect cable to an SFP cable. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.