Low latency multi-protocol retimers

A method comprising:

• receiving data with a receiver of a multi-protocol retimer, where the data has been transferred according to one of a plurality of protocols;
• and
• transmitting data between the receiver and transmitter of the retimer using
• a first data path coupled to the receiver and the transmitter if transfer the data received by the receiver occurs during or before protocol specific training of one or both of the transmitter and receiver via control circuitry in response to an indication of one protocol of the plurality of protocols, or
• a second data path coupled to the receiver and the transmitter if transfer the data received by the receiver occurs after the protocol specific training, the second data path having a lower latency than the first data path.

A system comprising:

• a pair of devices;
• a retimer coupled between the pair of devices to provide data flow in both directions between the pair of devices, wherein the data flow in each direction is performed by
• a receiver operable to receive data,
• a transmitter to transmit data,
• a first data path coupled to the receiver and the transmitter and operable to transfer data received from the receiver to the transmitter during protocol specific training, the first data path comprising control circuitry to control protocol specific training of one or both of the transmitter and receiver in response to an indication of one protocol of the plurality of protocols, and
• a second data path coupled to the receiver and the transmitter, the second data path having a lower latency than the first data path and for use in transferring data received from the receiver to the transmitter after protocol specific training.