Emcore and Picolight sign multi-source agreement for 12-channel pluggable optical modules
The pluggable optics MSA is a collaboration between Picolight and EMCORE, the two leading vertically integrated suppliers of connectorized, pluggable, parallel optics. The MSA defines common electrical, mechanical and optical specifications for pluggable parallel transmitter/receiver modules. Networking equipment manufacturers can be assured of multiple independent sources for these high bandwidth products that solve backplane bottlenecks in core routers, switches and cross connect equipment. Because the modules form the heart of these high capacity systems by replacing copper backplanes, the support of multiple suppliers is critical for high volume deployment.
"This is an important step to meet the escalating demand for connectorized parallel optics," said Warner Andrews, vice president of marketing for Picolight. "The pluggable optics MSA alleviates customer concern regarding product supply availability, while accelerating the adoption of optical backplanes. In contrast to other industry MSAs, this agreement between Picolight and EMCORE sends a strong message to the industry that there are two credible suppliers, with fully compatible products in volume production. We look forward to working with EMCORE and other manufacturers to expand the supply and meet the need for pluggable parallel optics."
"We are pleased today to introduce industry-wide specifications for connectorized parallel optical modules," said Robert Bryan, division vice president at EMCORE Fiber Optics. "These devices are quickly gaining in popularity, and with the pluggable optics MSA, EMCORE and Picolight provide customers the assurance of multiple reliable sources for compatible, connectorized parallel optical modules. We are excited to work with Picolight and other leading suppliers of parallel optics modules to support the increasing demand for products that offer the most cost-effective method for resolving the bandwidth restrictions of legacy copper backplanes inside network equipment."
The MSA-compliant parallel optical modules, based on VCSEL technology, have been available for over a year. These thumb-sized transmitter/receiver modules incorporate a widely accepted matrix array connector that enables the modules to be dropped into place late in the build cycle. This eliminates the risk of potential optical damage during the soldering and washing steps of standard assembly techniques, and also enables networking equipment manufacturers to better control equipment inventory by deciding, on a just-in-time basis, to populate ports on a line card. The MSA-based modules feature 12 channels operating up to 2.7 Gbps, with the 100-pin matrix array electrical connector and MPO 12 fiber parallel optical connector. The MSA further defines electrical and optical specifications to ensure interoperability.
The pluggable optics MSA is available for review by interested parties at www.picolight.com and at www.emcore.com.
Lynn Watson
Picolight Inc.
Tel. +1 303 530 3189
E-mail: lynn.watson@picolight.com
Web site: http://www.picolight.com
