During the power-on sequence of a PCI Express (PCIe) system, the reference clock (REFCLK) and sideband signals may not have reached their required stability or operating tolerance. The PERST# (PCIe Reset) signal is an active-low, open-drain output driven by the Root Complex (RC). It is used to hold the endpoint (EP) devices in reset while the system’s power and clock signals stabilize.

The PERST# signal remains asserted (held low) until the RC confirms that the power rails and REFCLK are stable. Once these are within specification, the RC deasserts (releases) PERST#, signaling to endpoint devices that the system is ready to begin PCIe link initialization.

pcie_sideBand_signal
The timing diagram shows the usage of PERST Signals

From the endpoint’s perspective, the deassertion of PERST# acts as a global reset release and indicates that power and clocks are valid, allowing the endpoint to start its PCIe link training and initialization process.
To ensure successful link initialization and operation between the Root Complex (RC) and Endpoints (EPs), the following timing requirements must be observed:

Symbol

Parameter

Min

Max

Units

Note

TPVPGL

Power Valid to PERST# input inactive

Note 1

 

ms

2

TPERST#-CLK

REFCLK stable before PERST# de-assertion

100

 

µs

 

TFAIL

Power level invalid to PERST# assertion

 

500

ns

 

TPERST

Assertion time of PERST#

100

 

 

 

TPERSTSLEW

Slew rate of PERST# transition to de-asserted

50

 

mV/ns

3

Want to learn more? Join our webinar on “Overview of PCIe Sideband Signal Functionality at Power-On & Low Power State, and Validation.”

Register here: https://www.prodigytechno.com/overview-of-pcie-side-band-signals-functionalities-at-power-on-low-power-state-and-validation

Prodigy Technovations offers a PCIe Low Power Side Band Signal Analyzer to help you capture and analyze critical signal behavior during power transitions.
Learn more: https://www.prodigytechno.com/device/pcie-low-power-side-band-signal-analyzer