NeoPhotonics samples 8×16 multi-cast switch modules for contentionless networks

NeoPhotonics Corp of San Jose, CA, USA (a vertically integrated designer and manufacturer of hybrid photonic integrated optoelectronic modules and subsystems for high-speed communications networks) has begun sampling a twin 8×16 multi-cast switch (MCS) module with an integrated amplifier array for use in high-performance colorless-directionless-contentionless (CDC) networks.

• The 8×16 MCS can drop channels from any of 8 different directions through any of 16 different ports without contention, even if identical wavelengths coming from different directions are dropped at the same time.
• An optional 17th port is available for network monitoring and control.
• The MCS modules also have a ‘twin’ circuit to perform the equivalent add functions.
• The new MCS joins NeoPhotonics’ family of multi-cast switch products, which are available in 4×4 and 4×16 configurations and are currently in volume production.

NeoPhotonics multi-cast switches are designed to be used in a next-generation ROADM (reconfigurable optical add/drop multiplexer) node to direct any wavelength to any port (colorless), accept input wavelength channels from multiple different directions (directionless), and be able to drop two identical wavelengths from different directions through the same switch (contentionless), increasing network flexibility and efficiency. Beginning with Verizon in 2015, network operators are transitioning to a fully CDC architecture in order to eliminate wavelength blocking, increase network utilization, enhance software-defined optical networking and future-proof current deployments. Deployments of CDC networks are expanding worldwide with deployments in Europe and now in China.

While enhancing functionality in long-haul deployments, this architecture becomes even more critical to cost-effective and efficient deployment of metro and metro access mesh networks, says the firm.

The new 8×16 series MCS uses NeoPhotonics’ hybrid photonic integration platform to provide cost-effective, low-loss switching functionality which, when coupled with amplifier arrays, allows simple integration into existing networks, as well as in new network buildouts.

“The 8×16 MCS module represents a significant step in providing CDC switching capability for core metro and long-haul networks for carriers worldwide,” says chairman & CEO Tim Jenks. “These products depend on our advanced hybrid photonic integration capabilities and combine arrays of splitters, switches, taps, monitors and amplifiers integrated together to offer superior performance, reliability and stability, and are scalable to large dimensionalities,” he adds.

The new MCS, along with NeoPhotonics’ broad suite of products for line- and client-side 100G-and-beyond products, will be displayed in booth #3017 at the Optical Fiber Communication Conference & Exhibition (OFC 2017) in Los Angeles (21-23 March)