In the challenging and opportune year of 2024, we collectively experienced unprecedented challenges and transformations. GIGALIGHT, leveraging its exceptional research and development capabilities and keen market insights, not only launched multiple innovative and excellent new products but also shone brightly at various global exhibitions, demonstrating the company’s strong prowess and boundless potential. Let’s review the highlights of GIGALIGHT’s year in 2024.

2024 New Product Launches

In 2024, GIGALIGHT continued to focus on new product development, consistently introducing high-performance optical transceivers that met market demands. Always at the forefront of technological innovation, GIGALIGHT’s new offerings not only enhanced data transmission speed and efficiency but also achieved significant optimizations in power consumption, cost, and stability, providing robust support for data centers and high-speed networks.

January 2024

GIGALIGHT successfully deployed 400G silicon-based optical transceivers for overseas data center users and announced plans to deploy 800G data centers using its leading and stable 800G silicon-based optical transceivers. Since substantially entering the field of silicon photonic chips and optical transceivers in 2018, GIGALIGHT has completed the mass production or prototype phase for at least 10 silicon-based optical transceiver models.

March 2024

GIGALIGHT introduced the linear 400G DR4 CPO silicon photonics engine, utilizing SOCKET packaging and LPO linear direct drive technology to eliminate DSP, significantly reducing system-level power consumption and cost. This engine excelled in performance, with all parameters reaching industry-leading levels, laying a solid foundation for GIGALIGHT’s product innovation for the next optical networking era.

May 2024

GIGALIGHT released 800G OSFP DR8/DR8+/DR8++ and 2×FR4/2×LR4 series silicon-based optical transceivers based on 7nm DSP, with power consumption as low as 16W, establishing a solid delivery foundation for the company to become a pioneer in this field. The 800G OSFP series optical transceivers surpassed protocol specifications in performance, providing powerful support for the company’s growth in the next-generation optical communications market. Additionally, GIGALIGHT mass-produced 400G OSFP-RHS DR4 and 400G QSFP112 DR4 silicon-based optical transceivers and introduced a low-power version of the 800G silicon-based series.

July 2024

In response to client demands, GIGALIGHT launched the Color X O-BAND series 100G QSFP28 DWDM1 silicon-based optical transceiver, further enriching its product line of incoherent DWDM transmission solutions. This optical transceiver excelled in performance, with better sensitivity than protocol specifications and low power consumption, making it suitable for 100G DCI networks.

August 2024

To address the urgent need for efficient thermal management solutions in AI computing data centers, GIGALIGHT developed high-reliability and cost-effective immersion liquid-cooled optical transceivers, covering the 5G fronthaul product line and the latest 400G and 800G product lines for AI computing applications. With speeds ranging from 10G to 800G, the products have been successfully deployed in various cooling liquids, positioning GIGALIGHT as one of the leaders in the global liquid-cooled interconnect field.

November 2024

GIGALIGHT introduced 25G SFP28 ZR/40G QSFP ZR4/100G QSFP28 ZR4 BIDI long-haul telecom-grade optical transceivers to meet the demands of wide-area coverage, optimize resource use, and reduce costs. These optical transceivers offered stable and reliable performance with low power consumption, providing high-quality optical transmission solutions for 5G communications, telecommunications, and metropolitan area transmission applications.

December 2024

GIGALIGHT launched an industry-leading 100G PAM4 SFP112 optical transceiver series, including 100G SFP112 SR1/LR1/ER1-30, specifically designed to meet the urgent needs of modern data centers and high-speed networks for high-performance, low-power, and high-density solutions. Covering long-distance applications from 100m to 30km, this series marked a significant advancement in 100G optical transceiver technology and signaled the direction of next-generation optical networks.

2024 Exhibition Recap

Throughout 2024, GIGALIGHT shone brightly at various international exhibitions, showcasing its profound strength and latest achievements in the field of optical communications. From CommunicAsia in Singapore to ICTCOMM VIETNAM in Vietnam, to CIOE and FUTURECOM in Brazil, GIGALIGHT’s exhibition stands were always crowded, attracting the attention of numerous industry experts and clients. Through live demonstrations and interactive exchanges, GIGALIGHT not only displayed its diverse product line and advanced technological solutions but also established closer ties with global partners, laying a solid foundation for future market expansion.

May 2024

At CommunicAsia in Singapore, GIGALIGHT officially launched its data center switch product line and exhibited the latest products, including the 400G DCI BOX. GIGALIGHT successfully demonstrated its capabilities and commitment in data center IT cabinet equipment and optical interconnect hardware integrated delivery.

June 2024

In June, GIGALIGHT participated in three major exhibitions. At ICTCOMM VIETNAM 2024 in Vietnam, GIGALIGHT showcased five product lines (DCI BOX equipment, incoherent DWDM transmission equipment, 5G fronthaul solutions, and 800G silicon-based AI interconnect solutions, and 100G data center switches) and demonstrated products such as the single-wavelength 400G DWDM DCI BOX network system. Subsequently, GIGALIGHT exhibited at the ABRINT Network Communications Exhibition in South America, bringing coherent series optical transceivers and DCI BOX products, in collaboration with its Brazilian agent. GIGALIGHT also participated in Japan’s FOE Optical Communications Theme Exhibition, showcasing coherent and incoherent DWDM, 800G/400G/200G AI computing power, and metropolitan telecommunications 5G, across three key product lines.

September 2024

GIGALIGHT participated in the Open Data Center Committee (ODCC) Summit 2024, showcasing its AI 800G computing interconnect optical transceivers and cables. It demonstrated various 800G optical transceivers, and its products and technologies in the field of AI computing power received widespread recognition.
During the same period, GIGALIGHT also attended the 25th China International Optoelectronic Exposition (CIOE) and the European Conference on Optical Communication (ECOC). It launched its annual marketing newspaper and elegant pen holders as promotional gifts, which were warmly welcomed by the attendees.

October 2024

At the FUTURECOM 2024 exhibition in São Paulo, Brazil, GIGALIGHT displayed its four major product lines: 5G optical network, AI supercomputing center, metropolitan area interconnect, and open coherent optical network.

November 2024

GIGALIGHT presented its solutions for next-generation 5G networks, AI data centers, metropolitan telecommunications, and passive components at the CFCF Asia-Pacific Optical Connectivity Conference, the final exhibition of the year. With this, GIGALIGHT successfully concluded all its exhibitions for the year 2024.

Looking back at 2024, GIGALIGHT has achieved remarkable results in both products and exhibitions. Looking ahead, GIGALIGHT will continue to adhere to its development philosophy of “Innovation Leading, Quality First,” continuously launching more high-performance, low-power optical communication products. It aims to provide global customers with better services and solutions, jointly promoting the sustained development of the optical communication industry.

0 6

In the rapidly evolving field of fiber-optic communications, the O-band has garnered significant attention due to its unique advantages. The O-band, with a wavelength range of 1260 to 1360 nanometers, stands as a crucial segment in fiber-optic communications. Building on this, GIGALIGHT offers a comprehensive O-BAND DWDM solution, encompassing 100G O-BAND DWDM optical transceivers and systems. Let’s delve into why GIGALIGHT’s O-BAND DWDM solution can be your ideal choice.

Zero-Dispersion Characteristics for Efficient Transmission

A notable feature of the O-band is its zero-dispersion characteristic. Dispersion, the phenomenon where optical signals of different wavelengths travel at different speeds, can degrade signal quality and limit transmission distance. However, the O-band’s zero-dispersion characteristic significantly mitigates this effect, enabling more stable and efficient signal transmission. This characteristic is crucial for enhancing transmission rates and extending transmission distances, particularly in high-bandwidth, low-latency applications such as 5G fronthaul and data centers.

Cost-Effective Advantage for Simplified System Architecture

Beyond its efficient transmission performance, the O-band also offers significant cost benefits. Since the O-band does not require additional dispersion compensation equipment, system architecture can be simplified, reducing complexity and overall costs. This represents a significant attraction for operators and equipment manufacturers seeking cost-effective solutions.

Efficient Transmission and Extended Reach

The O-band is suitable for mid-range transmissions, such as 5G fronthaul and data centers, with transmission distances up to 10 kilometers. With an external SOA (Semiconductor Optical Amplifier), single-span transmission can reach 30 kilometers.

GIGALIGHT 100G O-BAND DWDM Optical Transceiver

• Offers 16 O-band DWDM wavelengths ranging from 1260 to 1360 nm.
• 100Gbps hot-pluggable QSFP module suitable for 100G Ethernet PAM4 modulation.
• Duplex LC optical interface.
• Single-mode fiber reach up to 10 km, extendable to 30 km with SOA.
• Internal CDR circuits on both receiver and transmitter channels.
• Digital diagnostic monitoring.
• Low power consumption of <3.5W.
• Operating temperature range from 0℃ to +70℃.
• 3.3V power supply voltage.
• RoHS compliant (lead-free).

GIGALIGHT O-BAND DWDM Solution

With extensive experience and advanced technology, GIGALIGHT introduces the O-BAND DWDM solution tailored to meet transmission needs across various scenarios. The solution provides 16 O-band DWDM wavelengths ranging from 1260 to 1360 nanometers, offering users a diverse selection.

O-Band WDM Interconnection for Data Centers (Without SOA)

Key Application Highlights:

• Up to 16x100G transmission capacity per fiber.
• Low cost, requiring only passive MUX/DEMUX equipment and optical terminals.
• Easy deployment with a transmission distance of approximately 10 km.

O-Band WDM Interconnection for Data Centers (With SOA)

Key Application Highlights:

• Up to 16x100G transmission capacity per fiber.
• Low cost, requiring only SOA, OLP devices, and optical transceivers.
• Easy deployment with a transmission distance of approximately 30km.
• Supports 1+1 fiber link protection.
• Supports remote NMS management.

Metro Network O-Band WDM Solution

Key Application Highlights:

• Up to 16x100G transmission capacity per fiber.
• Low cost, eliminating the need for additional transponders or DCM modules.
• Transmission distance of 30 km with easy maintenance.
• Supports 1+1 fiber link protection.
• Supports remote NMS management.

In data center applications, GIGALIGHT’s O-BAND DWDM solution demonstrates unique advantages. Without the need for an SOA, it achieves up to 16x100G transmission capacity per fiber using only passive MUX/DEMUX equipment and optical terminals. This solution is not only cost-effective but also easy to deploy, with a transmission distance of up to 10 km. For scenarios requiring longer transmission distances, the use of SOA extends the distance to 30 km and supports 1+1 fiber link protection, ensuring stable and reliable transmission.

Furthermore, GIGALIGHT’s O-BAND DWDM solution supports remote NMS management, facilitating real-time network monitoring and management, and reducing operational costs.

GIGALIGHT’s O-BAND DWDM solution has demonstrated strong competitiveness across multiple application scenarios. In data center interconnects, it provides a high-capacity, low-cost, and easy-to-deploy solution, meeting data centers’ demands for bandwidth and flexibility. In metro network construction, GIGALIGHT’s O-BAND DWDM solution, with its long-distance transmission capability, low cost, and ease of maintenance, has become an ideal choice for operators building efficient and reliable networks.

0 7

December 17, 2024, Shenzhen, China. – As a pioneer in open optical network components, GIGALIGHT proudly announces the launch of its industry-leading 100G PAM4 SFP112 optical transceiver series, specifically designed to meet the urgent demands of modern data centers and high-speed networks for high-performance, low-power consumption, and high-density solutions. This series of optical transceivers covers long-distance applications ranging from 100m to 30km, marking a significant advancement in 100G optical transceiver technology and heralding the direction of next-generation optical networks.

The GIGALIGHT 100G SFP112 series optical transceivers feature a compact and efficient design that simplifies the selection of dual-wavelength and four-wavelength optical transmission while significantly reducing space occupancy, power consumption, and overall costs. By combining advanced 7nm CMOS DSP technology with 53G Baud EML or VCSEL lasers, and leveraging PAM4 modulation technology as its core, it achieves high-speed transmission of 100G per channel. All products comply with IEEE 802.3ck standards and the 100G Lambda MSA specifications, ensuring broad compatibility and reliability. Additionally, this series of optical transceivers incorporates low-power DSPs, ensuring energy-efficient performance in high-density routers and switches.

Below are the specific features of each model, showcasing the comprehensive advantages of the GIGALIGHT 100G SFP112 series optical transceivers:

100G SFP112 SR1

• COB packaging, integrating a 100G PAM4 850nm VCSEL and PIN receiver
• Up to 100m on MMF OM4/OM5 with the HOST FEC
• Dual LC/APC
• Complies with the SFP112 MSA standard
• Supports CMIS 4.0 protocol
• Power consumption below 2.1W at 70℃

100G SFP112 LR1

• Hermetically sealed packaging, integrating a 100G PAM4 1310nm EML and PIN receiver
• Up to 10km on SMF with the HOST FEC
• Dual LC/UPC
• Complies with the SFP112 MSA standard
• Supports CMIS 4.0 protocol
• Power consumption below 3.5W at 70℃

100G SFP112 ER1-30

• Hermetically sealed packaging, integrating a 100G PAM4 1310nm EML and APD receiver
• Up to 30km on SMF with the HOST FEC
• Dual LC/UPC
• Complies with the SFP112 MSA standard
• Supports CMIS 4.0 protocol
• Power consumption below 3.5W at 70℃

With their exceptional performance, compact design, and efficient power management, the GIGALIGHT 100G SFP112 series optical transceivers have become the ideal choice for modern data center and high-speed network upgrades.

About GIGALIGHT

As an open optical networking explorer, Gigalight integrates the design, manufacturing, and sales of both active and passive optical devices and subsystems. The company’s product portfolio includes optical modules, silicon photonics modules, liquid-cooled modules, passive optical components, active optical cables, direct attach copper cables, coherent optical communication modules, and OPEN DCI BOX subsystems. Gigalight focuses on serving applications such as data centers, 5G transport networks, metropolitan WDM transmission, ultra-HD broadcast and video, and more. It stands as an innovative designer of high-speed optical interconnect hardware solutions.

0 8

With the continuous development and popularization of global 5G networks, the demand for high-speed data transmission is continually increasing, driving ongoing innovation in optical communication technologies. As a technology follower of 5G OPEN RAN (Open Radio Access Network), GIGALIGHT provides multiple optical transceivers that meet OPEN RAN standards for 5G small cell equipment vendors, including next-generation 5G fronthaul DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing) optical transceivers and single-wavelength 100G series optical transceivers, to meet the growing demands of 5G networks and facilitate the construction of faster, more reliable communication networks.

Next-Generation 5G Fronthaul DWDM Optical Transceiver

25G SFP28 DWDM

The 25G DWDM series optical transceivers utilize an EML+PIN device solution with a power consumption of less than 1.5W. Transmission distances are available at 2km/10km, with options for ITU C-band 100GHz 44 channels.

50G SFP56 DWDM

Compared to 25G Optical transceivers, the 50G SFP56 DWDM doubles the rate to 50Gb/s within the same package size, saving 50% of ports and further enhancing the density and bandwidth of wireless fronthaul, aiding the smooth evolution of O-RAN and vRAN architecture systems into the next generation. The 50G DWDM series Optical transceivers employ an EML+PIN device solution with a power consumption of less than 3.1W. Equipped with DCM and EDFA, transmission distances can reach up to 80km.

Single-Wavelength 100G Series Optical Transceiver

GIGALIGHT focuses on developing small-form-factor SFP56/SFP56-DD/SFP112 optical transceivers for 5G fronthaul. These optical transceivers increase port density while delivering exceptional performance, meeting users’ needs across various working scenarios.

100G SFP56-DD LR1/ER1 Lite

The 100G SFP56-DD LR1 optical transceiver offers a maximum transmission distance of 20km, suitable for data centers, communication networks, and other scenarios. The 100G SFP56-DD ER1 Lite optical transceiver meets longer-distance data transmission requirements with a maximum transmission distance of 30km. Both Optical transceivers exhibit outstanding performance, with the LR1’s OMA sensitivity better than -10.93dB and the ER1 Lite’s OMA sensitivity exceeding -13.05dB, ensuring stable transmission of high-quality signals even in complex and variable optical signal environments. Furthermore, these two series of optical transceivers boast low power consumption, controlled below 3.5W, and a TDECQ average of only 2.6dB, demonstrating exceptional stability and reliability, providing users with efficient, smooth, and energy-saving data transmission experiences.

100G SFP112 LR1/ER1-30

This month, GIGALIGHT will also release new 100G SFP112 LR1/ER1-30 optical transceivers. The 100G SFP112 LR1 uses EML+PIN for 10km transmission, while the 100G SFP112 ER1-30 employs EML+APD for a transmission distance of 30km, with power consumption below 3.5W for both. The ultra-small form factor of SFP112 fulfills the 100G transmission requirements of 5G networks, enhancing density and efficiency.

With its 5G OPEN RAN optical transceiver series, GIGALIGHT has made a strong debut and not only demonstrated its profound expertise in the field of optical communications but also contributed significantly to the construction and development of global 5G networks. In the future, GIGALIGHT will continue to lead with technological innovation, pushing optical networks towards higher bandwidth, lower latency, and greater intelligence, joining hands with global clients to embark on a new chapter of unlimited bandwidth.

0 9

In today’s fast-paced digital era, the stability and efficiency of data transmission have become core elements of network applications. GIGALIGHT’s 25G SFP28 ZR, a transmission transceiver specifically designed for long-haul network applications, is an ideal choice for 25G Ethernet and data center interconnectivity.

The GIGALIGHT 25G SFP28 ZR transceiver supports a rate of 25.78Gb/s, ensuring rapid and efficient data transmission. Its transmitting end employs a cooled 25Gb/s EML 1309nm TOSA, capable of maintaining stable transmission performance during extended operation. The receiving end is equipped with an integrated 25Gb/s SOA+PIN ROSA, effectively enhancing the sensitivity and accuracy of signal reception.

The GIGALIGHT 25G SFP28 ZR incorporates CDR (Clock and Data Recovery) circuits at both the transmitting and receiving ends. This design enables the signal to maintain high stability and anti-interference capabilities during transmission, ensuring the complete transmission of data even in complex and ever-changing network environments.

Furthermore, the transceiver’s maximum power consumption is only 2.5W, reducing energy consumption while ensuring performance, thereby improving energy efficiency. With a maximum transmission distance of up to 80km (using single-mode fiber), it provides reliable support for long-distance data transmission.

In terms of interfaces, the GIGALIGHT 25G SFP28 ZR adopts a duplex LC interface. The transceiver supports an operating temperature range of 0 to 70℃, enabling it to adapt to commercial-grade working environments and ensuring stable network operation.

Overall, with its efficient, stable, and eco-friendly characteristics, the GIGALIGHT 25G SFP28 ZR has become an ideal choice for high-performance network applications. Whether in data centers, cloud computing platforms, or large enterprise networks, it delivers exceptional data transmission performance and reliable network support. Choosing the GIGALIGHT 25G SFP28 ZR is choosing a new future of efficient, stable, and eco-friendly network transmission.

10

In the vast constellation of optical communications, every flicker of light beats as the pulse of the information age. As industry giants wager on the future of 4-channel optical transceivers, GIGALIGHT, a brand that wings on innovation and steers with differentiation, is quietly rewriting the rules of transmission. We understand that if we cannot lead the trend, we will create our own path—the 8-channel optical transceiver is the dazzling fruit of this belief.

8-Channel Optics: GIGALIGHT’s Persistence and Innovation

Since its inception, GIGALIGHT has deeply understood that true innovation stems from profound insight and relentless pursuit of technology. In the field of optical transceivers, we stand out, adhering to the development philosophy of 8-channel optics and crafting a series of high-performance, high-reliability 8-channel optical transceiver product lines. Recently, the 800G QSFP-DD FR8/LR8, designed to fill the gap for medium to long transmission distances, is about to be launched.

GIGALIGHT 800G QSFP-DD FR8/LR8

The newly launched 800G FR8/LR8 adopts the QSFP-DD package and an EML emitter. The 800G QSFP-DD FR8 uses CWDM wavelengths for a transmission distance of 2km, while the 800G QSFP-DD LR8 employs LAN-WDM wavelengths for a transmission distance of 10km.

Compared to 800G FR4/LR4, GIGALIGHT’s 800G series optical transceivers boast superior OSNR performance due to the better signal-to-noise ratio of 100G PAM4 compared to 200G PAM4. This means that in the vast stream of information, our optical signals can travel farther and more stably.

The 800G QSFP-DD FR8/LR8 optical transceivers are suitable for core transmission scenarios in high-performance, high-speed data centers and telecommunication networks:

Data Center Interconnect

Meeting high-speed data transmission needs (supporting multi-wavelength and high channel bandwidth).

• LR8 (LWDM8) supports long-distance transmission of 10km, ideal for connections between large-scale data centers.
• FR8 (CWDM8 with 10nm spacing) supports 2km, suitable for short-distance interconnects between data centers.

Telecom Carrier Networks

Applied in metropolitan area networks and core networks for long-distance optical fiber communication.

Cloud Computing and AI Networks

Satisfying the requirements of cloud services, AI workloads, and other scenarios for large bandwidth, low latency, and high energy efficiency.

High-Frequency Trading and Other Fields

Supporting communication needs for rapid response and low latency.

The Path of Differentiation: GIGALIGHT’s Independent Thinking

GIGALIGHT’s 800G QSFP-DD FR8/LR8 will soon be available, and we are also developing OSFP packaging—stay tuned. We believe that true differentiation does not lie in blindly following trends, but in deeply understanding and anticipating the future. GIGALIGHT, as a pioneer, is leading the new era of 8-channel optical transmission.

0 1

In the rapid development of optical communication technology, data centers have an increasingly urgent demand for high-speed, efficient, and low-energy-consumption optical interconnect solutions. As two highly anticipated technical solutions, Co-Packaged Optics (CPO) and Linearly DrivenPluggable Optics (LPO) exhibit their respective characteristics in the field of optical module applications. However, CPO has obvious advantages over LPO in many aspects.

I. Advantages in Technical Principles and Integration

(A) Highly Integrated Architecture

CPO technology encapsulates the network switch chip and optical module within the same slot, achieving a tight integration between the optical engine and switch chip. This highly integrated architecture significantly shortens the distance between the switch chip and optical engine, fundamentally optimizing the electrical signal transmission path. Taking the connection between typical data center switches and optical modules as an example, in traditional methods, signals would undergo attenuation and delay in longer transmission lines. In contrast, CPO technology drastically reduces signal transmission distance, effectively enhancing electrical signal transmission speed, ensuring signal integrity, and minimizing the likelihood of signal distortion and interference.

Conversely, while LPO employs linear drive technology to eliminate the DSP/CDR chip within the optical module, integrating related functions into the switch chip on the equipment side, the optical module and switch chip remain relatively independent, falling far behind CPO in terms of signal transmission integration and optimization.

(B) Efficient Collaborative Operation

CPO technology enables deep collaborative operation between network switch chips and optical modules. Due to their physical proximity, they can achieve more efficient coordination in data processing and transmission. For instance, when handling large-scale data traffic, the switch chip can promptly and accurately send data to the optical module for optical signal conversion and transmission, while the optical module can swiftly respond by converting received optical signals back into electrical signals for the switch chip. This efficient collaborative operation mode enables CPO to excel in handling large volumes of data and high-rate data transmission tasks, effectively boosting the performance of the entire optical communication system.

In comparison, the collaborative operation between LPO’s optical module and switch chip relies on external interfaces and communication protocols, posing certain limitations in terms of data interaction timeliness and efficiency, making it challenging to meet the stringent demands of future ultra-high-speed, large-scale data transmission.

II. Advantages in Performance

(A) Low Power Consumption

With data center energy consumption becoming increasingly prominent, power consumption has become a critical metric for evaluating optical communication technologies. By shortening signal transmission distance and optimizing the integrated architecture, CPO technology significantly reduces energy loss during signal transmission. Relevant research data indicates that optical communication systems utilizing CPO technology can reduce power consumption by 30% to 50% compared to traditional solutions at the same data transmission rate. For large-scale data centers, this translates to substantial annual savings in electricity costs and contributes to achieving green energy-saving goals.

While LPO reduces some power consumption by eliminating the DSP chip, due to its separated design of the optical module and switch chip, it cannot match CPO in overall power consumption control. Especially in scenarios involving long-distance, high-rate data transmission, LPO’s power consumption disadvantage becomes even more apparent.

(B) High Transmission Rate and Stability

Leveraging its unique architecture and collaborative operation mechanism, CPO technology can support higher transmission rates. Currently, CPO technology has achieved high-speed data transmission of 800G and even 1.6T, demonstrating exceptional transmission stability. In complex network environments, CPO can effectively resist external interference, ensuring the accuracy and continuity of data transmission while reducing the bit error rate. For example, in AI data centers, where massive training data requires high-speed, stable transmission, CPO technology can meet this demand, ensuring efficient AI model training.

LPO’s removal of the DSP chip leads to an increased system bit error rate, posing bottlenecks in transmission distance and rate enhancements. It is more suitable for short-distance scenarios with relatively low rate requirements, falling short of CPO in terms of stability for long-distance, ultra-high-speed data transmission.

III. Advantages in Cost and Maintenance

(A) Long-term Cost Advantages

In the long run, CPO technology offers significant cost advantages. Although initial research and deployment costs for CPO are relatively high, as technology matures and scales up for production, costs will gradually decrease. CPO’s highly integrated nature reduces the number of interfaces and external cable connections between optical modules and switch chips, lowering hardware and cabling costs. Additionally, due to CPO’s low power consumption, long-term electricity cost savings are considerable.

While LPO reduces optical module procurement costs by eliminating DSP chip material costs, in terms of overall equipment costs, the increased performance requirements for switch chips on the equipment side, along with cabling costs, diminish its overall cost advantage in the long term.

(B) Maintenance Convenience and Reliability

In terms of maintenance, CPO technology exhibits high reliability. Its high integration reduces external connection points and potential failure points, lowering the probability of faults. In the event of a failure, CPO technology can quickly locate the issue through advanced monitoring and diagnostic techniques, enhancing maintenance efficiency. For instance, after a large data center adopted CPO technology, equipment failure rates dropped by 30%, and maintenance time was reduced by 50%.

While LPO supports hot-swapping, facilitating maintenance of individual optical modules, its relatively loose system architecture necessitates considerations around compatibility and collaborative operation between optical modules and switch chips during overall system maintenance, increasing maintenance difficulty and complexity.

IV. Current Development Status, Challenges, and Feasibility Comparison for Future Phases

(A) LPO Development Status, Challenges, and Future Feasibility

1.Development Status

At the technical level, LPO has made progress in the field of 800G optical modules. Taking 800gbps rates as an example, its power consumption can be reduced to approximately 8W, marking a substantial 40-45% reduction compared to traditional pluggable optical modules. In market applications, some companies have already begun layouts. For instance, at OFC 2023, Arista was the first to share test results for a 51.2T switch equipped with LPO transceivers, and NVIDIA is poised to be the first to deploy 200G per channel LPO transceivers in its AI clusters by 2025. Many industry-leading clients, such as Meta, are actively considering adopting LPO technology.

2.Challenges

LPO requires specific modules to pair with ASIC switch chips, which diminishes the versatility advantage of pluggable modules. Additionally, link performance and responsibility delineation are challenging, testing is complex, and there currently lacks unified electrical and optical standards, making interoperability between modules from different vendors difficult to guarantee. Furthermore, eliminating the DSP chip reduces power consumption and cost but increases the system bit error rate, posing bottlenecks in transmission distance and rate enhancements.

3.Future Feasibility

Despite challenges, LPO has emerged as a viable alternative to CPO in the 100G per channel interconnect field. By 2029, LPO’s penetration rates in 800G, 1.6T, and 3.2T ports are projected to be 3%, 33%, and 15%, respectively. If NVIDIA adopts LPO for NVLink expansion in its next-generation GPUs, it will significantly boost market demand for 1.6T-DR8 LPO modules, potentially adding over 8 million 1.6T LPO ports by 2027. With continuous technological improvements and the gradual establishment of industry standards, LPO has substantial growth potential in short-distance, cost-sensitive scenarios with moderate rate requirements.

(B) CPO Development Status, Challenges, and Future Feasibility

1. Current Status

Technologically, CPO has achieved high-speed data transmission of 800G and even 1.6T, and it excels in reducing power consumption. Broadcom and Cisco’s CPO products have achieved low power consumption of approximately 7pJ/bit, while CPO solutions from IBM, Coherent, and other companies have further reduced power consumption. In terms of industrial layout, Broadcom announced its next-generation switching ASIC product line equipped with CPO as early as 2021, and its product Bailly has been successfully put into production. Cisco showcased a CPO prototype at OFC2023. Intel placed its Silicon Photonics Group under the Data Center and AI (DCAI) group to fully develop optical engines based on silicon photonics. Additionally, numerous companies such as Ranovus, Marvell, Nubis Communications, Lightmatter, IBM, and others have joined the ranks of CPO technology research and development.

2. Challenges

From a technical perspective, the wiring process of connecting optical fibers from ASICs to the front panel of the PCB is challenging, and the overall testing and optimization after system integration are also complex. In terms of reliability, CPO technology integrates multiple optical modules with chips, leading to an increase in failure rates. For instance, Broadcom’s CPO lab product, which integrates 16 optical modules on a single board, exhibits a failure rate that is more than ten times higher, reducing reliability and stability to one-tenth of their original levels. From a market perspective, CPO research and development require significant financial and human resources, and the production process is complex. Cost reduction requires time and scale effect accumulation, making it difficult to compete with optical modules in the short term. Furthermore, several major CSP cloud vendors in North America have limited interest in CPO, and some overseas companies have even scaled down their research and development teams. Additionally, CPO mass production faces numerous technical challenges, with 3.2T as the generational standard. Mass production is expected no earlier than 2027, with Broadcom currently progressing the fastest, and its first-generation CPO engineering test scheduled for 2025.

3. Late-Stage Feasibility

According to the “2025 China CPO Industry Market Development Trends and Industrial Demand Forecast Report” published by Beijing Zhiyan Kexin Consulting Co., Ltd., the commercialization of CPO technology is expected to start with 800G and 1.6T ports, with commercial use beginning in 2024-2025 and subsequent scaled growth in 2026-2027. By 2033, the global CPO market size is projected to reach $2.6 billion. With the continuous maturation of technology, gradual reduction in costs, and increasing market demand for high-speed, low-power optical communication solutions, CPO is expected to occupy an important position in the future field of optical communications, particularly in data center scenarios with extremely high requirements for transmission rates and power consumption. Market news also indicates that NVIDIA may introduce a new CPO switch at the GTC conference in March 2025. The supply chain reveals that this CPO switch is in the trial production stage, and if progress is smooth, mass production can be achieved in August of this year. These developments demonstrate the potential for the future development of CPO technology.

In summary, CPO technology has significant advantages over LPO in terms of technical principles, performance, cost, and maintenance. Although both CPO and LPO face their own challenges during development (with CPO’s commercialization appearing more difficult relative to LPO), in the long run, with continuous technological breakthroughs and the gradual maturation of the market, CPO, with its unique advantages, is more likely to dominate the future field of optical communications and lead industry trends.

0 2

Currently, the networks we are communicating and constructing on do not possess a low-latency foundation. The belief in networks based on a 100G PAM4 underlying structure has been ingrained for many years. Although history cannot be reversed, it is necessary for us to question the networks, forming a theoretical basis for cognitive retrospection and moving forward anew.

We believe that not all networks are based on common infrastructure purposes. The diversification of network purposes is the ecological foundation for network diversification. Precisely because of this diversification, we cannot blindly accept the theory that networks based on a 100G PAM4 underlying architecture are infallible. Further refinements to this theory are inevitable.

Generally speaking, for applications like high-frequency trading and edge networks that require prompt responses, a more stable network underlayer is necessary. This underlayer does not necessarily rely on 100G PAM4 technology, as the stability of such networks is best achieved on the signal foundation of NRZ and 50G PAM4. If our goal is to achieve higher signal sensitivity and eliminate noise interference, NRZ and 50G PAM4 serve as the optimal bases for network practices. NRZ has an advantage over PAM4 primarily in signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), which is the foundation for eliminating DSP. As we all know, DSP introduces power consumption and significant network latency. Although both 50G PAM4 and 100G PAM4 belong to the PAM4 technology paradigm, their impacts on networks are strikingly different, with vastly different system SNR and power consumption implications. Technologies similar to LPO, which are currently trusted, can indeed form the basis for the next-generation network architecture akin to 50G PAM4. Attempts at this network have actually given us glimpses of the facts.

For high-frequency trading and edge networks, GIGALIGHT offers two evolutionary blueprints for technological practices. One is a network built on 400G QSFP-DD PSM8 optical transceivers, and the other is a network built on 400G QSFP-DD 2×FR4. These two networks can fulfill the purposes of high-frequency trading centers and edge networks, and they possess long-term effectiveness. If people must evolve towards 800G, we can still form a network architecture based on 16×50G PAM4. However, we also believe that both 50G PAM4 and 100G PAM4-based linear LPO and CPO technologies are goals for this network. The main dividing point remains: you must create a sufficiently stable, low-latency, and reliable foundation for this network. There is no need to pursue industry hotspots at the expense of blurring the practical functions of the network.

It is now believed that NV provides the most advanced network hardware for data center computing power, such as pluggable networks based on 200G SERDES/1.6T. However, this network faces challenges such as thermal power consumption and signal integrity. The industry has various technical concepts for improving this network, which are currently being tested and deployed. However, technologies like 3nm DSP, LPO, LRO, or immersion liquid cooling all require a certain amount of time for trial and error. Therefore, generally speaking, CPO may be a better solution. However, the premature definition of CPO makes this vision difficult to achieve in the short term. It is evident that NPO technology is the best practical blueprint for CPO implementation. Personally, I believe that data centers for computing power can continue to innovate along the path of 100G PAM4 without getting caught up in extending or evolving single-channel baud rates to 200G or 400G. Increasing baud rates reduces the system’s SNR and thermoelectric stability. I believe there are limits to deploying higher baud rate networks, and this model can be scientifically refuted, requiring reconsideration. Mainly, people must dispel the misconception that higher baud rates equate to technological advancement.

GIGALIGHT has a rich product line for AI&DC 800G computing power networks. We are currently establishing an innovative and differentiated product line for computing power networks starting from 800G and 1.6T. Products like GIGALIGHT’s 800G CWDM8/LR8 will serve as a supplementary architecture for 800G networks. For 1.6T, GIGALIGHT will begin a new product line layout and will release it by Q4 2025 at the latest.

The stagnation in 100G PAM4 technology research and development has led to difficulties in the innovation and evolution of metropolitan telecommunication networks. It is hard to believe that vast telecommunication networks in different locations can be built on the current underlying foundation of 100G PAM4 Ethernet. Future telecommunication networks must be based on three assumptions: first, building an infrastructure based on space wavelength division optics and a 50G network underlayer; second, developing a new technological platform for the next generation of 100G PAM4 DSP that is suitable for telecommunication networks; and third, establishing the next generation of high-speed networks entirely on the descent of various wavelength coherent technologies. These network architectures are not mutually exclusive, and each network can accommodate these three technologies. The main argument is that at different network nodes, corresponding technologies based on correct understanding are needed. However, this “correct understanding” must be based on the talent, preferences, and understanding of network rights of the network architects.

Based on the above understanding, GIGALIGHT will build the next generation of telecommunication network products within its own technological cognition. Indeed, this is a historical period dominated by computing power networks. However, people should not forget that it is the innovation in telecommunication networks that brings about the foundation for economic and industrial inclusiveness.

As for the most popular data center networks currently, since their concept is entirely focused on the general purpose of “data storage and retrieval,” this purpose is primarily based on simplicity and low cost. Therefore, their evolution is mainly driven by the interest in technological discoveries, the advanced deployment goals of the company’s future business, and assessments of its own economic strength and capabilities. Since the increase in general network baud rates cannot bring any additional benefits, we previously believed that 200G networks represented the optimal balance between cost and technology, and we still believe this today. Investments in 400G, 800G, and 1.6T general networks are mainly aimed at establishing a hierarchical structure within the network. If not driven by the demand for a hierarchical structure, the deployment of higher baud rate networks is solely motivated by the advancement of silicon photonics technology.

In the field of general data center architectures, GIGALIGHT has a comprehensive product line of silicon photonics, as well as a rich product line based on copper cable interconnection, VCSEL-based AOC, and EML technology. Due to the solidification of architectures, these products mainly compete on cost in the industry.

0 3

January 6, 2025, Shenzhen, China. – Only when the fruit is ripe does it fall from the vine; growth necessitates experience. GIGALIGHT announces the launch of a stock ownership initiative for all employees at the beginning of 2025, bidding farewell to the past but not goodbye, for it signifies a reencounter in a brighter future!

The year 2024, now a chapter in our history, saw significant consolidation in our mass production and shipping capabilities for 800G SR8 based on the VCSEL platform, 800G DR8/2×FR4 (SiPh) based on the silicon photonics platform, and 800G PCC/ACC based on the copper interconnect technology platform. Additionally, we actively laid the groundwork for the high-end EML technology platform targeted at next-generation metropolitan area network interconnections. As we embark on a new chapter in 2025, GIGALIGHT’s mantra is: “Hold 800G Lead, Aim for 1.6T, Advance Coherent Tech” With the robust development of global optical communications and AI, we are confident that these goals will be beautifully achieved.

GIGALIGHT is a unique enterprise in the global optical transceiver and interconnect field, distinguished by its diversified and differentiated product portfolio. “Original aspiration, integrity, humility, and craftsmanship” are not only the guiding principles behind GIGALIGHT’s products and solutions but also the philosophy that guides the spiritual growth and interaction between GIGALIGHT and its employees. The world can exist without GIGALIGHT, but it cannot tolerate a GIGALIGHT that relies on rent-seeking, abandons the concept of justice, or lacks intellectual progress.

About GIGALIGHT

As an open optical networking explorer, Gigalight integrates the design, manufacturing, and sales of both active and passive optical devices and subsystems. The company’s product portfolio includes optical modules, silicon photonics modules, liquid-cooled modules, passive optical components, active optical cables, direct attach copper cables, coherent optical communication modules, and OPEN DCI BOX subsystems. Gigalight focuses on serving applications such as data centers, 5G transport networks, metropolitan WDM transmission, ultra-HD broadcast and video, and more. It stands as an innovative designer of high-speed optical interconnect hardware solutions.

0 4

December 31, 2024, Shenzhen, China. – Differentiation is a long-term business strategy for small and medium-sized enterprises. Throughout its journey, GIGALIGHT has navigated the optical transceiver niche market with its pragmatic differentiation strategy, launching a series of innovative products and gaining widespread recognition in the global market in 2024.

1. 8x25G NRZ-based 8-channel 200G QSFP-DD PSM8 Product
GIGALIGHT’s 8-channel optical transceiver series has shone brightly in the North American market, successfully securing numerous orders from distributed small and medium-sized data centers, as well as an order from a significant customer whose identity cannot be disclosed. This achievement not only demonstrates GIGALIGHT’s deep expertise in high-speed data transmission but also establishes a strong brand image globally.

2. 8x50G PAM4-based 8-channel 400G QSFP-DD PSM8 and 200G QSFP-DD PSM4 Combination
GIGALIGHT’s 8x50G PAM4 combination product provides a new blueprint and best practices for distributed optical networks in metropolitan telecommunications. Its outstanding performance and stability have further expanded GIGALIGHT’s influence in the telecommunications sector.

3. Unique 3G/12G/48G SDI Optical Transceiver and SDI Optical Extender Product Line
GIGALIGHT has made significant breakthroughs in real-time video signal transmission with its unique SDI optical transceiver and SDI optical extender product line, offering superior solutions for niche areas such as pathological bitstreams. This innovation not only consolidates GIGALIGHT’s leading position in video transmission but also opens up new market spaces.

4. 10G-800G Immersed Liquid-cooled Optical Transceiver Product Line Combining Multiple Processes
By combining multiple processes, GIGALIGHT has successfully launched a 10G-800G immersed liquid-cooled optical transceiver product line. This product line is a combination of ambition, perseverance, and data. GIGALIGHT’s comprehensive product layout and research in this field have propelled it to the forefront of the world.

5. 200G QSFP56 FR4 Based on PAM4 DML and 2x100G QSFP-DD 2xCWDM4 Based on 8x25G NRZ
Customer applications of GIGALIGHT’s 200G optical transceivers have established its industry reputation in the 200G category, further solidifying its position in the data center optical transceiver market.

6. 400G QSFP-DD 2xFR4 Data Center Optical Transceiver Using PAM4 DML Technology
Staying abreast of technological trends, GIGALIGHT has successfully launched a 400G QSFP-DD 2xFR4 data center optical transceiver using PAM4 DML technology. This product not only boasts excellent transmission performance but can also be widely applied in future 400G networking for edge data centers in combination with 5G technology. Although this market is still in its nascent stages, GIGALIGHT’s product undoubtedly lays a solid foundation for its future development.

7. 800G & 400G Silicon Optical Transceivers for AI & DC, and Highly Differentiated 100G QSFP28 DWDM O-BAND Product
Silicon pluggable optical transceivers have become widely homogenized, but GIGALIGHT has demonstrated its prowess in differentiated development. Its launch of 800G & 400G silicon optical transceivers and highly differentiated 100G QSFP28 DWDM O-BAND products not only meets the market’s demand for high-performance optical transceivers but also showcases GIGALIGHT’s innovative strength in silicon photonics technology.

Looking back at 2024, GIGALIGHT has stood out in the technology industry with its differentiated product strategy and innovative spirit. In the future, GIGALIGHT will continue to adhere to the path of differentiated development, launching more innovative products to provide global customers with even better and more efficient services. Let’s look forward to GIGALIGHT achieving even more glorious accomplishments in its future development!

About GIGALIGHT

As an open optical networking explorer, Gigalight integrates the design, manufacturing, and sales of both active and passive optical devices and subsystems. The company’s product portfolio includes optical modules, silicon photonics modules, liquid-cooled modules, passive optical components, active optical cables, direct attach copper cables, coherent optical communication modules, and OPEN DCI BOX subsystems. Gigalight focuses on serving applications such as data centers, 5G transport networks, metropolitan WDM transmission, ultra-HD broadcast and video, and more. It stands as an innovative designer of high-speed optical interconnect hardware solutions.

0 5