The first product in Jabil’s new active optical cable (AOC) family is available in two configurations to offer data center operators increased deployment flexibility. The first configuration supports point-to-point communications at speeds up to 800 Gbps over distances of up to 100 meters. A breakout-cable configuration is also available, which connects a single 800-Gbps interface with two 400G QSFP-DD modules. The breakout cable is ideally suited to connect next-gen switches operating at 800 Gbps with existing ports operating at 400 Gbps without requiring additional conversion or mapping. The new 800G AOC product will be available in both QSFP-DD and OSFP form factors.
In addition to decreasing deployment requirements and costs, Jabil’s AOC offering delivers significant performance and efficiency benefits using vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) technology operating at 100 Gbps per fiber and 800G PAM4 digital signal processing (DSP) technology. VCSEL is gaining traction rapidly for its ability to address the rigorous requirements of demanding applications, including short-reach, high-speed optical communications, 3D sensing, and facial recognition. In addition to elevated performance, Jabil’s AOC solution offers seamless compatibility with a vast range of Ethernet switch designs.
“Jabil’s investments in key enabling technologies and world-class facilities are driving the availability of game-changing photonics solutions and capabilities,” said KW Hoo, vice president of the photonics business unit, Jabil. “With the introduction of our 800G AOC family, we meet immediate needs for low-cost, high-performance, short-distance interconnects. Jabil’s ability to push the boundaries of photonics technology is backed by strong product design, precision manufacturing, and packaging services that advance optical communications excellence on behalf of our global customers and valued partner ecosystem.”
Jabil’s first 800G AOC product will be available during the second half of 2023. Development is underway on 400G AOC products to extend the AOC product line while accommodating a wide range of applications.
