What is the major difference between CML and LVDS?

[aoshater]

LVDS or CML ?

We are working on a project and i have been reading many datasheets of products similar to that we plan to design.

I have noticed they always used LVDS for data that comes from data sources on the PCB such as network processors and frequencies around 600Mbps.

They use CML for serial data of 2.5Gbps which goes to an optical module.

But is that really the reason why they choose input parallel 600Mbps drivers as LVDS and output serial driver as CML?

And in general, what is the major difference between CML and LVDS?

Thank you

 

[Nixphe]

A Comparison of CML and LVDS for High - speed Serial Links - AN1202 - Cypress Semiconductor

might help ...


no idea if anyone is still looking at this old post

 

[dick_freebird]

One difference is that LVDS (TIA-644) has a well defined spec,
while "CML" means different things to different vendors, logic
families, etc. All you really know is that the signal is defined in
terms of current levels.

 

[love_analog]

People tend to equate LVDS with lower current than CML. Typically CML is used for highest freq ~10G or so.