Multi-gigabit low-power radiation-tolerant data links and improved data motion in trackers

Abstract

We present a set of links based on data-transmission IP in 130nmdesigned for rapid integration into ASIC designs. These links aredesigned for use in very high radiation environments as occur in highenergy physics experiments. The designs are additionally low power andsmall area, easing integration with other electronic systems. Theselinks are well suited to use in tracking detectors. Trackers, due totheir close proximity to the collision, are subject to very highlevels of radiation, and hence require such radiation hardenedelectronics. The portfolio of radiation hardened data transmissionblocks consists of a 1Gbps serializer/deserializer with a very lowpower consumption ~1mW for each. A differentialtransmitter and differential receiver rated at 3GHz, both designed tobe much faster than needed, as insurance against radiationdamage. Finally, the impact of a prototype low-latency, low-power( < 60mW total link power) 5Gbps link is considered. Case analysis ofthe impacts of using lower powered, higher speed blocks inhypothetical trackers is studied, showing power improvements relativeto alternative technologies.