Blind adaptation of a decision feedback equalizer for use in a 10Gbps serial link

Abstract

The Decision Feedback Equalizer (DFE) is commonly used in recovering data at the receive end of a multi-gigabit per second rate serial backplane channel. This form of equalization scheme typically relies on a training sequence. However this training sequence may not be shared by all implementations of the DFE, thus causing significant compatibility issues. A model of a DFE and adaptation algorithm was developed in MATLAB in combination with measurement data of a typical backplane channel. A method was developed to process the incoming signals from the channel involving a known adaptation algorithm in order to determine appropriate tap coefficients. These coefficients are shown to be effective for a data rate of 10 Gbps. The design presented would yield itself to standard-cell implementation except for the analog DFE structure and several stages of the up/down counters. Furthermore the design was evaluated using representative error sources and across several design parameters.Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission.There are many people I would like to thank for their encouragement and support during the course of my degree. The first and foremost is my supervisor, Professor Tad Kwasniewski, for always guiding me with my best interests in mind and for creating an environment which is so ideal for learning. I would like to thank my research group, from which I have learned a great deal more than I had ever anticipated. To my friends in the department;