FCI launches XCede backplane connector products

Photocoupler

FCI, a leading manufacturer of connectors and interconnect systems, has recently introduced the 25Gb/s XCede vertical backplane plug and right-angle daughter card socket. This innovative solution is designed for high-performance computing and data center applications, where speed and reliability are critical. The vertical backplane plug offers flexibility with signal modules that can have four, six, or eight columns, each containing two, four, or six differential signal pairs. Additionally, the series features double, triple, or four-sided retaining walls, with the three-sided option including an integrated guide post and polarized keyholes for secure mating.

FCI is the second supplier authorized by Amphenol to manufacture, market, and sell all XCede products and related add-ons. This partnership ensures a seamless and compatible ecosystem for customers who rely on high-speed connectivity solutions.

Nicholas Tan, FCI Global Product Marketing Manager, stated, "Thanks to our mutual licensing agreement, FCI and Amphenol have successfully aligned the Xcede plug with corresponding sockets, ensuring optimal performance. A comprehensive set of compatibility tests was conducted to guarantee reliable operation across different configurations."

The XCede Connector Platform provides a clear and sustainable path for customers developing next-generation device platforms. As the demand for higher signal speeds and better performance increases, this platform supports future upgrades without requiring complete redesigns. The use of advanced engineered polymers in the resonant damping shield minimizes crosstalk and delivers exceptional performance across a wide frequency range.

The XCede connector also meets the growing need for higher linear signal density at backplane or midplane interfaces. For a 6-pair differential configuration, a minimum of 36 mm of card slot spacing is provided, resulting in 82.4 differential signal pairs per inch. For a 4-pair configuration, 25 mm of spacing allows 54.9 signal pairs per inch, while a 2-pair setup can fit as tightly as 15 mm, offering 27.5 signal pairs per inch along the card edge.

In addition to signal modules, the product line includes complementary guidance and power modules. Customers can choose from a variety of configurations, such as combining a right-angle signal module, a pilot module, and a power module into a single connector. This flexibility makes the XCede platform ideal for complex system designs that require both signal integrity and power delivery.

The XCede backplane plug is built for long-term reliability in high-end systems. Its design features extended ribs near the top end of the joint, enhancing ruggedness and protecting signal pins from damage. This makes it well-suited for demanding environments where durability and performance are essential.