Marvell has expanded its connectivity portfolio with the introduction of active copper cable (ACC) linear equalizers, as announced at the 2025 OCP Global Summit in San Jose, California. The new devices are designed to advance high-speed, scale-up interconnects within data centers, particularly those handling artificial intelligence (AI) workloads, which require greater bandwidth, improved airflow, and enhanced cooling within server racks.

According to Marvell, its ACC linear equalizers are engineered to offer longer reach and lower power consumption than conventional passive direct attach copper (DAC) cables. These analog components utilize integrated signal equalizers to address signal transmission constraints associated with higher bandwidths and thinner copper cabling, while adding minimal latency compared to digital alternatives.

The linear equalizers are based on Marvell’s pulse amplitude modulation 4 (PAM4) technology and analog expertise in both 100 gigabit per second (Gbps) and 200 Gbps per lane devices. The company reports that these solutions provide higher gain and greater reach within the same cable gauge compared to other ACC offerings on the market. They support both 800 gigabit and 1.6 terabit copper interconnects, broadening Marvell’s portfolio alongside its chipsets for active electrical cables (AEC) and active optical cables (AOC).

Marvell states these ACC linear equalizers are particularly suited for data center environments prioritizing in-rack, scale-up connectivity for advanced AI systems. Sampling of the new components is currently underway for customers.

Source: Marvell