ClariPhy Targets 10 Gbit/s

IRVINE, Calif. -- ClariPhy Communications, Inc., an Irvine-based startup, is developing mixed-signal ICs that set new performance benchmarks for multi-gigabit per second (Gbit/s) communications applications. The company's initial products target the emerging 10GBASE-LRM (LRM) Ethernet standard that is nearing IEEE ratification. ClariPhy's engineering team includes some of the world's leading experts in communications, digital signal processing (DSP) and mixed-signal IC design.

"ClariPhy has built a world-class engineering team, assembled from among the best communications IC companies in the industry," said Dr. Paul Voois, President and CEO of ClariPhy. "We have developed the first DSP-based PHY for 10-Gbit/s over fiber using a standard CMOS process. It will exceed 300m reach over legacy multimode fiber, thereby enabling a seamless and cost-effective upgrade of existing Ethernet infrastructure to 10-Gbit/s speeds. For new installations, our technology will enable the best combination of power dissipation, reach and latency of any PHY over any cabling medium."

The combination of rapidly escalating data volumes and cost sensitivity in today's enterprises has created demand for network upgrade solutions that do not require infrastructure replacements. In order to meet that demand, ClariPhy is focusing on the LRM standard for 10-Gbit/s serial transmission over legacy multimode fiber. ClariPhy's technology includes maximum likelihood sequence detection (MLSD), a powerful algorithm for compensating modal dispersion that enables reaches exceeding 300m. And unlike the alternative optical solution 10GBASE-LX4, which requires complex parallel optics, LRM uses serial optics and significantly lowers overall system cost.

"Vertical riser connections in the enterprise require 300m reach over legacy multimode fiber and have historically been addressed by 10GBASE-LX4," stated Jag Bolaria, Senior Analyst with The Linley Group. "ClariPhy's implementation of EDC with innovative digital signal processing techniques in CMOS addresses these performance requirements, and, at a lower price point."

ClariPhy Communications Inc.