MaxLinear Extends Copper Connectivity with 224G Retimer for AI Data Centers
Event summary
- MaxLinear launched the Annapurna 224G scale-up retimer, enabling up to 1.6Tbps of electrical connectivity.
- The device supports copper backplanes and Active Electrical Cables (AECs) at 224Gbps per lane using PAM4 signaling.
- LightCounting Research projects a market of 30 million AEC and on-board copper retimers by 2029.
- Annapurna is expected to be available in Q2 2026.
The big picture
AI data centers are facing increasing bandwidth demands, pushing the limits of traditional interconnect technologies. While optical solutions remain dominant for longer distances, electrical interconnects offer compelling advantages in power efficiency and latency for scale-up architectures within racks. MaxLinear’s Annapurna retimer aims to extend the viability of copper connectivity at 224G, positioning the company to capitalize on the growing demand for rack-scale AI infrastructure.
What we're watching
- Market Adoption
- The success of Annapurna hinges on data center operators' willingness to adopt copper solutions at 224G, which will depend on demonstrating a clear cost and power advantage over optical alternatives.
- Competitive Landscape
- MaxLinear's ability to maintain its competitive edge will depend on its continued innovation in electrical interconnects and how it responds to potential advancements in optical transceiver technology.
- ESUN/UALink Integration
- The degree to which Annapurna’s compatibility with emerging protocols like ESUN and UALink drives adoption and revenue will be a key indicator of its long-term success.
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