April 20, 2026, Shenzhen, China. – It was learned today from the intellectual property authority that GIGALIGHT has been granted a utility model patent for an 800G/1.6T/3.2T pluggable silicon photonics optical module with an external light source, which was filed in May 2025. The corresponding invention patent is currently under substantive examination.

The main difference between pluggable external light source optical modules and conventional pluggable optical modules lies in the externalization of the light source. These modules adopt ELSFP or OSFP packaging. In terms of using an external light source, they share a similar concept with NPO/CPO solutions. Pluggable external light source optical modules are designed to address the following key challenges:

1. Thermal and Power Consumption Issues in High-Speed Modules

Conventional 1.6T/3.2T pluggable optical modules generate excessive heat due to high power consumption, which in turn affects the laser source, reducing its efficiency and causing operational instability. We believe that in the 1.6T/3.2T era, the stable operation and lifespan of lasers are critical considerations. Pluggable external light source optical modules effectively avoid the instability caused by high temperature and high energy consumption affecting the laser.

2. Continuation of Pluggable Module Evolution Path

Pluggable external light source optical modules can continue the long-term evolutionary path of pluggable optics. A key assumption is that if NPO/CPO optical interconnect solutions do not meet expectations, pluggable modules with external light sources will remain a viable and user-friendly alternative. In addition, such modules can support applications in immersion liquid cooling environments.

We believe that NPO/CPO solutions based on external light sources represent the optimal evolutionary path for next-generation optical interconnects. At the same time, if customers develop 1.6T/3.2T systems based on the pluggable external light source optical module described in this patent, it can significantly improve development efficiency—though at the cost of reduced port density.

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 III-V optical modules, silicon photonics modules and silicon-based NPO/CPO engines, liquid-cooled optical modules, passive optical components, Active Optical Cables (AOCs), Direct Attach Cables (DACs), coherent optical communication modules, OPEN DCI BOX subsystems based on coherent and O-band DWDM optical modules, and UHD SDI video optical transceivers. GIGALIGHT focuses on applications including AI data centers, 5G transport networks, metropolitan WDM transmission, and ultra-HD broadcast and video, positioning itself as an innovative designer of high-speed optical interconnect hardware solutions.

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April 2, 2026, Shenzhen, China. – The rapid growth of AI computing power is bringing the concept of low-latency optical switches back into focus. Leveraging its independently developed 100G QSFP28 PSM DWDM4 optical modules and universal C-band AWGR (Arrayed Waveguide Grating) routers, GIGALIGHT has defined and launched a fixed C-band DWDM-AWGR all-optical wavelength switching solution. The solution has completed proof-of-concept validation and comprehensive parameter testing in the laboratory. It is designed to support the migration of private networks—such as campus networks and power grids—toward nanosecond-level optical switching infrastructure.

I. Function and Working Principle of the AWGR Router

An AWGR (Arrayed Waveguide Grating Router) is a passive optical routing device based on planar lightwave circuit (PLC) technology. Its core capability lies in cyclic wavelength routing: an optical signal entering input port i with wavelength λ_j is deterministically routed to output port (i + j) mod N, without any electrical-layer switching. This property enables an N×N AWGR to simultaneously support up to N² independent, non-blocking optical paths, making it a key building block for optical switching matrices.

Unlike a static AWG (used only for multiplexing/demultiplexing), an AWGR features specially designed arrayed waveguide phase responses that enable cyclic routing. Its optical characteristics can be dynamically tuned via thermo-optic or electro-optic effects, allowing control over the output paths of different wavelengths.

The AWGR structure consists of:

N input waveguides, an input free propagation region (star coupler), an arrayed waveguide region (with uniform path-length differences for phase delay), an output free propagation region, and N output waveguides.

Comparison between AWGR and conventional AWG structures:

Schematic Diagram of the Cyclic Routing Operation of the AWGR:

II. GIGALIGHT 50GHz C-Band 64×64 AWGR Passive Device Introduction

GIGALIGHT’s 50GHz C-band Gaussian-type 64×64 AWGR provides 64 input ports and 64 output ports. It features a typical insertion loss of 8 dB, high channel isolation up to 35 dB, and extremely low polarization-dependent loss (PDL ≤ 0.5 dB), ensuring clean and stable signal transmission. The device supports an operating temperature range of -5°C to 65°C and is available in standard 2U rack-mount packaging or other form factors for easy deployment and maintenance.

III. 100G QSFP28 PSM DWDM4 C-Band Product Introduction

GIGALIGHT’s 100G QSFP28 PSM DWDM4 (Parallel Single-Mode, 4-channel DWDM) optical module supports 48 channels in the C-band with 100 GHz spacing. Each module integrates four EML lasers operating at different DWDM wavelengths, with each channel running at 25G NRZ. The optical interface uses an MPO-12 connector, and total power consumption is less than 5W.

When used with external DWDM MUX/DEMUX, the total bandwidth can reach up to 1200G over dual-fiber transmission. The module can be directly inserted into standard 100G QSFP28 switch ports, eliminating the need for traditional DWDM electrical-layer equipment.

Key Differences Between GIGALIGHT’s C-Band Parallel DWDM-AWGR Matrix and Traditional Switching Matrices

1. Tunable DWDM Module + AWGR:
By combining tunable DWDM optical modules with AWGR devices, a fully optical switching matrix with dynamically reconfigurable channels can be achieved. Service paths can be switched automatically by adjusting wavelengths, without manual intervention.

2. Non-tunable Parallel DWDM Module + AWGR:
Using fixed-wavelength parallel DWDM modules with AWGR results in a non-reconfigurable optical interconnect matrix. Service switching requires manual reconfiguration, as wavelengths are fixed.

IV. AWGR Test Setup

AWGR testing focuses on validating key parameters such as insertion loss, crosstalk, polarization-dependent loss (PDL), and polarization-dependent wavelength (PDW). The test system typically includes a tunable laser source, polarization controller, optical switch matrix, optical power meter, and optical spectrum analyzer.

In system-level testing of the 50GHz C-band 64×64 AWGR with 100G QSFP28 PSM DWDM4 modules, EDFAs are introduced to compensate for AWGR insertion loss.

V. AWGR Application in Campus Networks

In campus networks, AWGRs are deployed at the core layer to replace large electrical switching matrices. Each building or functional area is equipped with 100G QSFP28 PSM DWDM4 modules. Using four fixed C-band wavelengths, direct optical interconnection is achieved through the AWGR at the aggregation layer.

This architecture reduces O-E-O conversion stages, lowers latency and power consumption, and—together with EDFAs—compensates for insertion loss.

Schematic Block Diagram of Campus Network Application:

VI. AWGR Application in Power Networks

Power communication networks require extremely stringent performance: millisecond-level latency, ultra-high reliability, and stable operation under strong electromagnetic interference (EMI). AWGR’s all-optical routing is inherently suitable for substation and dispatch center fiber networks.

Combined with 100G PSM DWDM4, multiple services—such as teleprotection, PMU monitoring, video surveillance, and management data—can be transmitted simultaneously over the same fiber. EDFAs are also used to compensate for AWGR insertion loss.

Power Network Application Schematic Block Diagram:

VII. Comprehensive Evaluation of the AWGR Solution

Advantages:

The combination of 100G PSM DWDM4 and AWGR tightly integrates multi-wavelength optical outputs with cyclic routing capabilities. Each QSFP28 port directly transmits four fixed C-band wavelengths (via external DWDM MUX), resulting in a simple architecture capable of supporting up to 10 km transmission with EDFA assistance.

AWGR eliminates multiple O-E-O conversions found in traditional electrical switching systems, reducing node-to-node latency to near the speed of light (well below 1 μs forwarding delay). This is especially valuable for teleprotection in power systems and east-west traffic in data centers.

In campus networks, AWGR enables a flattened architecture, replacing multi-layer aggregation switches. A single AWGR can provide full 100G interconnection across buildings, significantly reducing total cost of ownership (TCO) and power consumption.

In power networks, DWDM channel-level physical isolation naturally meets strict teleprotection requirements, while optical fiber transmission is immune to EMI.

Limitations:

The primary challenge lies in wavelength management complexity. Due to the cyclic routing nature of AWGR, wavelength allocation across nodes must be carefully planned. Network scaling (e.g., from 8×8 to 64×64 or larger) requires reconfiguration of wavelength plans and appropriate AWGR sizing, making it less flexible than purely electrical switching architectures.

Conclusion:

This solution is best suited for large-scale campus backbone networks and power private networks with stable topologies, strict latency and power requirements, and professional optical network operation capabilities. It is not recommended for small- to medium-sized networks with frequent topology changes or dynamic scaling needs.

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 III-V optical modules, silicon photonics modules and silicon-based NPO/CPO engines, liquid-cooled optical modules, passive optical components, Active Optical Cables (AOCs), Direct Attach Cables (DACs), coherent optical communication modules, OPEN DCI BOX subsystems based on coherent and O-band DWDM optical modules, and UHD SDI video optical transceivers. GIGALIGHT focuses on applications including AI data centers, 5G transport networks, metropolitan WDM transmission, and ultra-HD broadcast and video, positioning itself as an innovative designer of high-speed optical interconnect hardware solutions.

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March 16, 2026, Shenzhen, China. – The era of optical interconnects based on NPO/CPO is approaching. GIGALIGHT today announced the successful development of its XT-1.6T DR16 NPO linear silicon photonics engine, confirming that the NPO (Near-Packaged Optics) ecosystem—both domestically and internationally—has now taken shape.

XT-1.6T DR16-NPO Silicon Photonics Engine Overview

The 1600G NPO adopts a socket-based form factor. The product dimensions comply with the OIF-Co-Packaging-3.2T-Module-01.0 standard, combined with LPO linear direct-drive technology and flip-chip bonding technology.

Compared with traditional NPO/CPO architectures, the linear NPO silicon photonics engine eliminates the DSP, significantly reducing system-level power consumption and overall cost.

Product Photo

Application Scenarios

Key Features

1.6T CPO DR16 Silicon Photonics Engine

• 16 × 100G PAM4 architecture
• Supports up to 500 m transmission distance
• Power consumption < 16 W

EL-OSFP External Light Source Module

• Front-facing optical port design
• Supports 16-channel CWL high-power light sources

Key Performance Specifications

Transmitter:

The optical eye diagram shows excellent performance, with a typical TDECQ of only 2.2 dB. The module fully complies with the IEEE 802.3bs DR4 standard, enabling seamless interoperability with conventional DR4 optical modules that use DSPs, and supporting hybrid deployment of both new and legacy architectures.

Receiver:

At a BER of 1E-6, the sensitivity of all channels is better than –5 dBm, ensuring sufficient link budget for reliable operation.

The launch of the XT-1.6T DR16 NPO linear silicon photonics engine marks an important milestone for GIGALIGHT as it moves toward the next generation of high-integration 1.6T / 3.2T scale-up AI computing optical interconnects.

According to the roadmap, GIGALIGHT will soon introduce the second-generation 1.6T DR16 NPO linear silicon photonics engine, further validating its readiness for commercial deployment. Additional 1.6T and 3.2T NPO silicon photonics engines are also under active development.

The first-generation XT-1.6T DR16 NPO silicon photonics engine will be demonstrated live at OFC 2026 through GIGALIGHT’s commercial partners.

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 III-V optical modules, silicon photonics modules and silicon-based NPO/CPO engines, liquid-cooled optical modules, passive optical components, Active Optical Cables (AOCs), Direct Attach Cables (DACs), coherent optical communication modules, OPEN DCI BOX subsystems based on coherent and O-band DWDM optical modules, and UHD SDI video optical transceivers. GIGALIGHT focuses on applications including AI data centers, 5G transport networks, metropolitan WDM transmission, and ultra-HD broadcast and video, positioning itself as an innovative designer of high-speed optical interconnect hardware solutions.

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March 10, 2026, Shenzhen, China. – GIGALIGHT, a company committed to differentiated technologies, has recently announced the launch of its latest 400G QSFP-DD PSM DWDM4 optical module based on the O-Band (original band). This new product further expands the company’s O-Band DWDM product portfolio and provides a cost-effective new solution for 400G DWDM links.

1. Introduction to the ColorX 400G QSFP-DD PSM DWDM4 O-Band Silicon Photonics Module

The product is based on 4×100G PAM4 silicon photonics modulation technology, covering 16 wavelengths with a 200 GHz channel spacing.

O-band (1310 nm window) DWDM technology, leveraging its natural zero-dispersion characteristics, redefines a cost-efficient DCI interconnection standard for 400GE.

Key Features:

• DCM-Free Operation:
  Operating in the zero-dispersion region of the O-band, eliminating the need for expensive and bulky dispersion compensation modules (DCM). This significantly simplifies line card design and reduces insertion loss.
• Ultra-Low Power Consumption:
  Utilizing advanced silicon photonics integration technology, the module achieves industry-leading power efficiency (power consumption < 11 W), making it ideal for high-density data center deployments.
• Ultra-Low Latency:
  By eliminating the DSP-based dispersion compensation used in coherent modules, the transmission latency of the optical module is significantly reduced.

2. Application Scenarios of the ColorX 400G QSFP-DD PSM DWDM4 O-BAND Silicon Photonics Module

• Metro Access and Aggregation Networks: Provides a cost-effective solution for 5G fronthaul and enterprise private line services.
• Data Center Interconnect (DCI): Supports short- to medium-reach transmission within 30 km, meeting the requirements of distributed computing infrastructure.
• Open Optical Networks: Decouples from white-box equipment, improving network deployment flexibility.

15 km Data Center Interconnect (without SOA amplifier).

30 km Data Center Interconnect (with SOA amplifier)

30 km Data Center Interconnect (with SOA amplifier)

3. Industry Value of the ColorX O-BAND Optical Modules

According to the Product Director of GIGALIGHT:
“O-Band has unique advantages in metro network scenarios due to its dispersion characteristics. The newly launched 400G DWDM4 module addresses the urgent market demand for cost-effective DWDM solutions for short- and medium-reach transmission, and is particularly suitable for data center interconnect (DCI), telecom edge network upgrades, and various niche markets that require high cost-performance solutions.”

Product roadmap:

ColorX O-BAND 100G QSFP28 DWDM1 – a complementary and breakthrough solution to 100G coherent technology.
ColorX O-BAND 200G QSFP-DD PSM DWDM4 – a complementary and breakthrough solution to 200G coherent technology.
ColorX O-BAND 400G QSFP-DD PSM DWDM4 – a complementary and breakthrough solution to 400G coherent technology.
ColorX O-BAND 800G QSFP-DD PSM DWDM4 – a complementary and breakthrough solution to 800G coherent technology.
ColorX O-BAND 800G OSFP PSM DWDM4 – a complementary and breakthrough solution to 800G coherent technology.

We believe that GIGALIGHT’s O-BAND DWDM technology journey will bring new value and fresh possibilities to users and the entire industry.

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.

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January 29, 2026, Shenzhen, China. – Driven by design innovation, GIGALIGHT officially announces the launch of its 800G OSFP HYBRID ACC+ active copper cable interconnect solution. Unlike conventional 800G AEC designs, the HYBRID ACC+ adopts a semi-DSP architecture, significantly reducing overall power consumption and system cost while maintaining high-speed signal integrity.

HYBRID Green Active Copper Cable Design Diagram:

GIGALIGHT’s Open Laboratory conducted comprehensive debugging and validation using an in-house developed checker instrument, followed by interoperability testing on NVIDIA 800G InfiniBand switches. The results demonstrate that the 800G OSFP HYBRID ACC+ 5-meter active copper cable is fully compatible with 800G switching systems, delivering excellent signal performance:

• Pre-FEC BER at the 1E-9 level
• Post-FEC BER reaching 1E-15 or better
• Eye Opening Info FOM values above 70 for the majority of channels

These results confirm the robust signal quality and system stability of the HYBRID ACC+ solution.

Positioned against mainstream industry AEC active copper cables, the HYBRID copper interconnect extends the maximum reach of 800G active copper links to beyond 5 meters. By deploying DSP capability on only one side—either the line side or the host side—for high-speed signal compensation and processing, the HYBRID architecture reduces the required number of DSP channels (or chips) by approximately 50% compared with conventional AEC solutions. As a result, the product achieves a typical power consumption of around 5.5W per end, with an end-to-end latency of approximately 100 ns at 5 meters. Under equivalent reach conditions, overall power consumption, latency, and system cost can be improved by about 40%.

In parallel, GIGALIGHT has also initiated the development of HYBRID 1.6T ACC active copper cable products to address next-generation ultra-high-speed interconnect requirements.

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.

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