MACOM Launches First PCIe 7.0 Linear Equalizers for High-Speed Copper Interconnects
Event summary
- MACOM introduced the industry’s first PCIe 7.0-optimized linear equalizers (MAEQ-39964 and MAEQ-39966) on March 12, 2026.
- The devices support 128 GT/s operation and are designed for data centers, high-performance test equipment, and server/storage systems.
- The MAEQ-39964 is for Active Copper Cables (ACCs), while the MAEQ-39966 includes integrated 2×2 switching for system/server applications.
- The products will be showcased at OFC 2026 in Los Angeles from March 17–19, 2026.
The big picture
MACOM’s PCIe 7.0 equalizers address the growing demand for high-speed, low-latency interconnects in data centers and enterprise systems. As PCIe 7.0 adoption accelerates, the ability to maintain signal integrity over copper cables at 128 GT/s could extend the lifespan of existing infrastructure, delaying the need for costlier optical upgrades. The launch positions MACOM as a key enabler in the next wave of high-performance computing.
What we're watching
- Adoption Pace
- How quickly data centers and high-performance systems integrate PCIe 7.0 copper interconnects...
- Competitive Response
- Whether rivals like Broadcom or Marvell will accelerate their own PCIe 7.0 solutions...
- Copper vs. Optical
- The extent to which MACOM’s advancements extend copper’s relevance against optical alternatives...
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