Agilent Technologies Proves High-Performance 6.25 Gb/s SerDes Core in 90-Nanometer CMOS Process

Silicon-Validated ASIC Offers Storage and Networking OEMs Unrivaled Performance and Flexibility

PALO ALTO, Calif., Nov. 30, 2004 -- Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) today announced that it has validated its third-generation SerDes core in a 90-nm CMOS process technology. Due to the core's superior noise immunity, modular design and low power consumption, storage and networking OEMs are now able to embed as many SerDes channels (each operating at up to 6.25 Gb/s) as needed onto a single ASIC chip.

"Our latest 90-nm validated SerDes core offers customers the flexibility to embed hundreds of SerDes channels on a single chip," said Kin Chan, director of engineering for the Networking Solutions Business Unit in Agilent's Semiconductor Products Group. "Agilent's unrivaled combination of high-performance IP cores, high-speed design and embedded test expertise is what maintains our position among the ASIC leaders."

In tests conducted at Agilent, the embedded SerDes ASIC achieved error-free transmission driving signals over FR4 material (at room termperature) a distance of 76 centimeters (30 inches) using two connectors. The 90-nm SerDes core is compliant with Ethernet XAUI and is designed to offer these industry-leading features:

• 1149.6 AC-Extest for testing AC-coupled connections between ICs on the PCB
• LC-based oscillator for improved power-supply noise rejection
• Decision feedback equalization
• BERT on chip for channel optimization
• Automatic receiver DFE tuning
• Low bit error rate of <10-17
• Internal 100-ohm differential termination

Agilent's embedded SerDes ASIC development model provides support throughout the entire product life cycle. It incorporates testing capabilities as early as the definition of system-level architecture and accounts for in-circuit manufacturing test, functional test, system turn-on and debug, and field diagnostics. With this model, Agilent enables equipment manufacturers to develop high-bandwidth networking and storage systems with superior reliability and reduced size, complexity and cost.

About Agilent's ASIC Solutions

With three decades of ASIC design and manufacturing experience, Agilent offers state-of-the-art hierarchical design methodology and design-for-test capability. The company has a consistent record of first-pass success in the design and manufacture of these chips, and provides in-depth system-level design experience, assurance of supply, and total life cycle support. These strengths, combined with an extensive IP portfolio, facilitate rapid integration of quality, high-performance ASICs for applications, including communications, imaging, storage and computing. More information is available at www.agilent.com/view/asic.

About Agilent Technologies

Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) is a global technology leader in communications, electronics, life sciences and chemical analysis. The company's 28,000 employees serve customers in more than 110 countries. Agilent had net revenue of $7.2 billion in fiscal year 2004. Information about Agilent is available on the Web at www.agilent.com.