Achieving Seamless 1.6 Tbps Interoperability with Samtec and Synopsys

Introduction

As artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) workloads continue to scale rapidly, traditional system architectures are reaching their limits. Today’s data-intensive applications require not only faster processing but also significantly higher bandwidth. That’s where 1.6 Tbps Ethernet becomes essential.

In a recent webinar hosted by SemiWiki, Synopsys and Samtec joined forces to discuss how they are enabling seamless interoperability at 1.6 Tbps. Industry leaders Madhumita Sanyal from Synopsys and Matt Burns from Samtec shared insights into system-level challenges, high-speed connectivity solutions, and real-world validation.

Why 1.6 Tbps Is the Future

AI is no longer just a software challenge—it’s reshaping hardware design from the ground up. To support modern AI systems, designers need to both scale-up (enhancing power within the system) and scale-out (spreading workloads across multiple systems).

This dual requirement places immense pressure on connectivity, making high-speed interconnects like 224G SerDes essential for performance and scalability.

The Role of Synopsys: From Protocols to Validation

Architectural Innovation

Madhumita Sanyal, Director of Technical Product Management at Synopsys, emphasized how modern system architecture must accommodate bandwidth, density, and power efficiency simultaneously. She introduced Ultra-Ethernet and UALink_200 as emerging protocols tailored for AI infrastructure.

Connectivity Across Environments

She explained how different link types—passive copper cables, active copper cables, and optical modules—play distinct roles within hyperscale and enterprise systems. Additionally, she demonstrated:

• Short- and long-reach capabilities of 224G SerDes channels

• Waveform simulations for early-stage architecture validation

• Loopback validation using Samtec’s Si-Fly® HD, DACs, and Bulls Eye® evaluation boards

These validation environments confirm that Synopsys IP can reliably deliver 1.6 Tbps over various real-world hardware setups.

The Samtec Perspective: Connecting at 224 Gbps and Beyond

High-Performance Interconnects

Matt Burns from Samtec provided a comprehensive system-level view. As the need for high-speed, low-latency data transfer grows, so does the importance of Samtec’s advanced interconnect portfolio.

He detailed their support for 224 Gbps PAM4 signaling through solutions such as:

• Si-Fly® HD Near Chip Cable Assemblies with up to 170 differential pairs/in²

• Flyover® technology for front-panel to backplane connections

• Hyper Low Skew Twinax cables, offering industry-leading signal integrity

System Design Compatibility

Matt also addressed how Samtec ensures its solutions align with both co-packaged and near-packaged architectures. This flexibility is critical for OEMs and ODMs building modular, high-density AI and ML systems.

Real-World Results: 1.6 Tbps Demonstration

The highlight of the session was a live demo of 1.6 Tbps interoperability between Synopsys IP and Samtec interconnects. This wasn’t just a simulation—it was actual hardware proof of performance.

As Matt Burns aptly put it,

“If I’m an OEM or an ODM trying to implement 1.6T ports, there’s no one solution provider I can go to for the whole thing. It takes a village.”

This collaboration proves that interoperability at ultra-high speeds is not only possible—it’s already happening.

Conclusion

1.6 Tbps isn’t a futuristic concept—it’s a requirement for today’s AI-powered infrastructure. With leaders like Synopsys and Samtec working together, the building blocks for high-bandwidth, low-latency systems are already in place.

Whether you’re a system architect, network engineer, or data center strategist, the insights from this webinar provide a roadmap to scale your systems with confidence.

Source - Semiwiki