Highlights
A single, standardized cable assembly provides a common hardware solution that combines power as well as low and high-speed signals to simplify server design.
A flexible, easy-to-implement interconnect solution replaces multiple components and reduces the need to manage multiple cables.
Thin design and mechanical construction meet Molex-recommended OCPs, and NearStack PCIe optimizes space, reduces risk, and speeds time to market.
Lyle, Illinois – October 17, 2023 – Molex, a global electronics leader and connectivity innovator, has expanded its array of Open Computing Project (OCP)-recommended solutions with the introduction of the KickStart Connector System, an innovative all-in-one system that is the first OCP-compliant solution. KickStart is an innovative all-in-one system that is the first OCP-compliant solution to combine low and high-speed signals and power circuits into a single cable assembly. This complete system eliminates the need for multiple components, optimizes space, and accelerates upgrades by providing server and equipment manufacturers with a flexible, standardized, and easy-to-implement method of connecting boot-driven peripherals.
“The KickStart Connector System reinforces our goal of eliminating complexity and driving increased standardization in the modern data center,” said Bill Wilson, manager of new product development at Molex Datacom & Specialty Solutions. “The availability of this OCP-compliant solution reduces risk for customers, eases the burden on them to validate separate solutions, and provides a faster, simpler path for critical data center server upgrades.
Modular Building Blocks for Next-Generation Data Centers
The Integrated Signal and Power System is a standardized small form factor (SFF) TA-1036 cable assembly that complies with OCP’s Data Center Modular Hardware System (DC-MHS) specification.KickStart was developed in collaboration with OCP members and is recommended for use with OCP’s M-PIC specification for cable-optimized boot peripheral connectors.
As the only internal I/O connectivity solution recommended by OCP for boot drive applications, KickStart enables customers to respond to changing storage signal speeds. The system accommodates PCIe Gen 5 signaling speeds with data rates up to 32 Gbps NRZ. planned support for PCIe Gen 6 will meet the growing bandwidth requirements.
In addition, KickStart aligns with the form factor and robust mechanics of Molex’s award-winning, OCP-recommended NearStack PCIe connector system, which offers a minimum mating profile height of 11.10mm for improved space optimization, increased airflow management, and reduced interference with other components. The new connector system also allows for simple hybrid cable assembly pinouts from the KickStart connector to the Ssilver 1C for Enterprise and Data Center Standard Form Factor (EDSFF) drive mating. Support for hybrid cables further simplifies integration with servers, storage, and other peripherals, while simplifying hardware upgrades and modularization strategies.
Unified Standards Improve Product Performance and Reduce Supply Chain Constraints
Ideally suited for OCP servers, data centers, white box servers, and storage systems, KickStart reduces the need for multiple interconnect solutions while accelerating product development. Designed to support current and changing signal speed and power requirements, Molex’s data center product development team works with the company’s power engineering team to optimize power contact design, thermal simulation, and power consumption. As with all Molex interconnect solutions, KickStart is backed by world-class engineering, volume manufacturing, and global supply chain capabilities.
Post time: Oct-30-2023