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Molex CX2-DS 224G cable assembly and socket.

CX2-DS High-Speed Connectors and Cable Assemblies

Enabling 224G PAM-4 connectivity for high-density, next-generation hyperscale data center and AI server architectures, the CX2 Dual-Speed (CX2-DS) system is a modular, near-ASIC connector-and-cable system optimized for reliability at high data rates. The shielded CX2-DS connector provides exceptional signal integrity while ensuring mechanical reliability through wipe-based mating and secure, screw-based retention. The CX2-DS system can be utilized with I/O BiPass, backplane BiPass or as mesh cables to support growing bandwidth demands.

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Data Rate Mated Height Configuration Impedance
Up to 224Gbps 18.50 to 22.80mm 32 to 64 differential pairs 92 Ohms

224G Signal Integrity and Mechanical Reliability for Next-Gen Servers

The rise of AI, machine learning and high-performance computing (HPC), together with ever-increasing data transmission speeds, bring new challenges for data system design engineers. Data rates of 224Gbps PAM-4 require exceptional insertion loss (IL), return loss (RL) and crosstalk performance, pushing the boundaries of PCB trace capabilities. High-speed interconnect designs must adapt to ensure durability and long-term reliability while reducing system complexity, minimizing dependence on PCB coplanarity and simplifying maintenance and upgrades.

Near-ASIC twinax cable solutions can help maintain signal integrity by minimizing IL, RL and crosstalk at 224G data rates. By using mechanically robust connectors that ensure shielding, retention, alignment and mating independent of the PCB, connector-and-cable solutions improve system density, routing flexibility and serviceability.

The CX2-DS connector-and-cable system is engineered to enhance flexibility and reliability for high-density 224G systems in hyperscale data centers, AI servers and HPC applications. The near-package copper connector uses twinax cable to improve signal integrity (SI) and maximize routing flexibility for next-generation architectures. Two-piece connector-and-socket construction ensures superior electrical performance and proper mating independent of PCB coplanarity or compression force, reducing field failures and downtime. The connector design manages alignment, shielding and retention functions, simplifying design work and easing maintenance challenges in high-volume deployments.

Reliable Signal Integrity for 224G

The CX2-DS design is optimized for reliable 224G BiPass and near-ASIC applications at 92 Ohms nominal impedance. Individually terminated differential pairs and plated-plastic housings with conductive gaskets provide superior shielding and enable consistent SI.

Molex 224G CX2-DS 64-differential pair continuously variable transmission (CVT) board.

High Mechanical Reliability

The two-piece plug-and-receptacle design delivers long-term reliability independent of PCB coplanarity or compression force. The male-female mating interface with mechanical wipe provides consistent connectivity; screw assembly ensures full and secure mating; and robust connector construction support alignment, shielding and retention.

Molex 224G CX2-DS 32-differential pair cable assembly.

System Design Flexibility

Multiple pair counts, pitches and cable gauges enable architects to optimize system density and routing. Right-angle or vertical cable exits, together with side-by-side and belly-to-belly placement options, support dense PCB configurations and twinax arrangements.

Molex 224G CX2-DS 32-differential pair cable assembly.

224G CX2-DS 32-DP Universal Socket

DP Count 32 pairs
Wafer Structure  4P by 8R
Pitch 1 4.00 by 2.30mm
Pitch 2 4.30 by 2.80mm
Molex 224G CX2-DS 32-differential pair universal socket.

224G CX2-DS 48-DP Universal Socket

DP Count 48 Pairs
Wafer Structure  6P by 8R
Pitch 4.00 by 2.30mm
Molex 224G CX2-DS 48-differential pair standard and universal socket.

224G CX2-DS 64-DP Standard and Universal Socket

DP Count 64 Pairs
Wafer Structure 1 4P by 4R
Wafer Structure 2 6P by 8R
Pitch 1 4.00 by 2.30mm
Pitch 2 4.00 by 2.80mm
Molex 224G CX2-DS 64-differential pair standard and universal socket.

Minimizes the risk of connection failure over long-term operation
The two-piece connector system with mechanical wipe helps ensure long-term reliability and robust durability by delivering electrical shielding, robust retention and error-resistant alignment and mating.

Simplifies upgrades and minimizes tooling
Individually terminated and overmolded differential pairs enable a modular approach when creating new pair sizes and aspect ratios, enhancing adaptability and accelerating time to market.

Protects against contaminants or other potential damage
The board-mounted receptacle protects the PCB surface, reducing the effects of environmental contamination and helping improve reliability.

Mitigates crosstalk and signal loss to optimize SI performance
The plated-plastic housing, conductive cable gasket and additional ground contacts help minimize signal loss and crosstalk to provide superior SI at high data rates.

Reduces installation complexity and hardware requirements
With soldered screw posts and T6 Torx screw retention instead of compression-based attachment, the simple, rugged connection does not require additional hardware for mechanical retention or electrical functionality.

Applications by Industry

Server & Storage
Switches

This is not a definitive list of applications for this product. It represents some of the more common uses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What system design challenges does the CX2-DS high-speed connector solve?

The CX2-DS high-speed connector addresses the signal-integrity, reliability and serviceability challenges of 224G near-ASIC architectures by reducing dependency on PCB traces and improving overall system reliability. The design’s small footprint, low mated height and robust connector design deliver efficient, consistent interconnect performance that enables dependable, high-volume data center deployments.

How is the Molex CX2-DS surface-mount (SMT) connector different from compression-based cables?

The CX2-DS system uses a two-piece plug-and-receptacle interface with a mechanical wipe to deliver consistent performance without relying on compression force or PCB coplanarity. Integrated screws secure the connector to the socket, ensuring consistent, full mating, independent of the PCB.

How does the Molex CX2-DS near-package copper solution support 224G performance?

The CX2-DS system supports 224G PAM-4 speeds by using individually terminated differential pairs on dual-drain 92-Ohm twinax cable to deliver superior IL, RL and crosstalk performance. Paired with enhanced design features and premium twinax cable, the CX2-DS system provides exceptional high-speed signal integrity for next-generation data centers.