27Sep, 2023

What is the Bit Error Rate(BER)?

The Bit Error Rate (BER) is a metric used to measure the rate of bit transmission errors in digital communication systems. It represents the ratio of the number of erroneous bits received during transmission over a certain period to the total number of bits received during the same time. It is typically expressed as a percentage or in exponential form, for example, 1E-6 indicates one error bit in every one million transmitted bits.

The BER directly relates to the reliability and performance of digital communication systems. A lower BER signifies more reliable transmission, while a higher BER indicates poorer transmission quality, potentially leading to data loss or transmission errors.

In digital communication systems, BER can be measured by sending a known bit sequence and then comparing the received bit sequence with the transmitted one at the receiving end. By counting the number of error bits, the BER can be calculated.

The target value for BER often depends on specific application scenarios and system requirements. In high-speed optical fiber communication systems, a very low BER is typically required, such as 1E-12 or lower. In certain wireless communication systems, a higher BER may be tolerated, such as 1E-5.

To reduce BER, digital communication systems often employ a range of techniques and methods, including channel coding, modulation, equalization, and error correction. These technologies enhance signal robustness and fault tolerance, thereby reducing the transmission error rate.

Several factors influence the Bit Error Rate (BER), including:

1. Channel Noise: Channel noise refers to random noise introduced during signal transmission. Higher levels of noise lead to higher BER.

2. Signal Power: Lower signal power results in greater susceptibility to noise, leading to higher BER.

3. Transmission Distance: Longer transmission distances increase signal attenuation and distortion, contributing to a higher BER.

4. Signal Modulation Scheme: Different modulation schemes exhibit varying noise resistance. Some schemes (e.g., QAM) have lower BER in high signal-to-noise conditions, while others (e.g., ASK) may perform better in low signal-to-noise conditions.

5. Channel Distortion: Channel distortion includes multipath effects, frequency-selective fading, and phase offsets. These distortions introduce interference and errors, leading to higher BER.

6. Intersymbol Interference: Intersymbol interference refers to mutual interference between adjacent bits. Higher intersymbol interference leads to a higher BER.

7. Signal Modulation Rate: Higher modulation rates imply shorter bit durations, imposing stricter requirements on the transmission channel, potentially resulting in higher BER.

8. Data Rate: Higher data rates may increase interference between bits, leading to higher BER.

9. System Design and Implementation: Factors such as system design and implementation quality, error correction, and detection mechanisms also influence BER.

In conclusion, Bit Error Rate (BER) is influenced by multiple factors, including channel noise, signal power, transmission distance, signal modulation scheme, channel distortion, intersymbol interference, signal modulation rate, data rate, and system design and implementation. In practical applications, these factors need to be carefully considered, and appropriate technical means should be employed to minimize BER.

23Sep, 2023

Silicon Photonics 400G DR4 Optical Modules : Paving the Way for 400G Transmission

The continuous growth of data centers and the demand for higher bandwidth and lower power consumption are driving constant innovations in optical communication technology. In this context, 400G DR4 silicon photonics products have emerged as a standout, thanks to their outstanding performance and groundbreaking technologies. Let’s delve into the overall characteristics of silicon photonics technology, its advantages in data center applications, and the key technological breakthroughs behind this achievement.

Characteristics of 400G DR4 Silicon Photonics Products

1. High Speed
400G DR4 silicon photonics products stand out with their incredibly high single-port transmission bandwidth. This high-speed capability offers greater flexibility and performance for data center applications, ensuring fast data transmission and processing.

2. Small Form Factor
Complementing their high-speed capabilities, 400G DR4 silicon photonics products come in compact form factors. They boast high panel density, providing more space for data center architecture, while accommodating the growing data demands with larger overall capacity.

3. Low Power Consumption
Despite their exceptional performance, 400G DR4 silicon photonics products prioritize energy efficiency. Their low-power design contributes to energy savings and reduces cooling requirements, a critical aspect for large data centers that helps lower operational costs.

Advantages of Matching 400G QSFP-DD DR4 Silicon Photonics Modules with 32-Port High-Capacity Switches

The perfect compatibility between 400G QSFP-DD DR4 silicon photonics modules and 32-port high-capacity switches brings a range of advantages to data centers:

1. Smallest Form Factor
With QSFP-DD packaging compliant with MSA standards, 400G QSFP-DD DR4 silicon photonics modules are currently the smallest in size among 400G optical modules. This provides 1U-high switches with exceptional port density, offering a total capacity of up to 1.28TBPS.

2. Silicon Photonics Integration Technology
These modules feature integrated components such as 7nm DSP, CW light sources, MZ modulators, silicon waveguides, detectors, and more. This internal integration significantly reduces chip size and lowers power consumption. It enhances performance while reducing energy consumption.

3. 100G PAM4 Technology
400G QSFP-DD DR4 silicon photonics modules adopt 100G PAM4 technology, including four parallel channels with a total data rate of up to 425Gbps, four times that of 100G optical modules. This delivers exceptional bandwidth performance, meeting the demands of high-speed data transmission.

Key Technological Breakthroughs in 400G QSFP-DD DR4 Silicon Photonics Modules

The success of 400G QSFP-DD DR4 silicon photonics modules relies on key technological breakthroughs, with one of the most significant being:

Silicon Lens Technology
Efficient coupling of silicon photonics is achieved through silicon lens technology. Under three temperatures, the response rate reaches as high as 0.8A/W, overcoming adverse effects like crosstalk. This technology enables perfect commercial production, ensuring customers have easy access to the superior performance of silicon photonics at 400G.

P1. Silicon Photonics Optical Module in Manufacture

P2. Silicon Photonics Optical Module in Manufacture

In conclusion, silicon photonics technology is paving the way for the future of data centers. With its high speed, small form factor, low power consumption, and compatibility with high-capacity switches, it has become a vital innovation in the field of optical communication. As data demands continue to grow, silicon photonics technology will evolve and strengthen, supporting high-performance and sustainable development in data centers. For more information on silicon photonics at 400G, please feel free to contact Gigalight.

22Sep, 2023

GIGALIGHT’s Live Unveiling of Silicon-Based 400G QSFP-DD LR4 Optical Module at ECOC 2023

[Shenzhen, China, September 22, 2023] GIGALIGHT, the open optical networking devices explorer, is excited to announce the successful development of a 400G QSFP-DD LR4 10km optical module based on silicon photonics technology. This groundbreaking product will be featured in a live demonstration at the 49th ECOC Exhibition from October 2-4, 2023 (Booth No.: 553).

GIGALIGHT’s silicon-based 400G QSFP-DD LR4 10km product fully adheres to the 400G-LR4-10 100G Lambda MSA standards, supporting single-mode fiber transmission of up to 10km while maintaining backward compatibility with 400G FR4 applications. This product features dual LC fiber connectors and employs the CWDM4 wavelength. Both the transmitter and receiver sides of the product utilize cutting-edge silicon photonics technology.

Key performance attributes include:

TX OMA optical power exceeding +0.3dBm.
TX per-channel TDECQ of less than 2.4dB.
RX OMA sensitivity meeting -6.8dBm @ 2.4E-4 Pre-FEC 53.125GBd.
Power consumption of less than 11W.

This product underwent a continuous 24-hour, 10km optical fiber transmission test in a 400GE traffic benchmark, achieving zero data loss with the assistance of KP4 FEC. GIGALIGHT plans to commence mass production of this product before the end of the current year.

Breaking new ground often involves navigating challenges. As the second global manufacturer to launch this module, after INTEL, GIGALIGHT has dedicated seven years to advancing the field of silicon photonics. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all those who’ve stood by us through the demanding phases of this journey. Thanks to your steadfast support, silicon photonics has emerged from a formidable landscape into a promising frontier.

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.

21Sep, 2023

Optical Modules FAQs — Part 2

In the dynamic realm of optical networking, real-world challenges often test the capabilities of both original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and third-party modules. These challenges encompass issues like unresponsive ports, fluctuating links, CRC errors, packet loss, module failures, and sudden downtimes. To assist and enlighten our community, we’ve compiled essential answers to these common queries:

Q1: High Prices of OEM Modules — Are They Justifiable? Do You Really Need Them?

A1: The soaring prices of OEM modules may raise eyebrows, with a part of the cost aimed at providing assurance, and another part for profit. Yet, OEM modules indeed guarantee superior quality and compatibility, potentially avoiding disruptive issues. Juggling various third-party modules based on cost alone can lead to complications. Some third-party optical modules maintain robust quality control and compatibility testing. The choice depends on your priorities and operational capabilities.

Q2: Manufacturer Size — Does Bigger Mean Better Quality?

A2: For well-established modules, the difference between large and small manufacturers is subtle, mostly evident in extreme cases. Regardless of size, it’s crucial that both manufacturers ensure compatibility with your specific equipment.

Q3: AOC Compatibility Troubles — Whose Responsibility Is It?

A3: When AOC (Active Optical Cable) connections between different manufacturers don’t function as expected, both parties share the responsibility. To avoid such scenarios, clarify the type of equipment on the other end and whether pre-coding is necessary before procuring AOC/DAC (Direct Attach Cable).

Q4: Deciphering Optical Module Transmission Distance

A4: Optical module and AOC transmission distances are primarily determined by the modules themselves, with equipment playing a smaller role. However, for modules that support Forward Error Correction (FEC), both the module and the equipment must be FEC-compatible to achieve extended distances. For example, without FEC, some 40G single-mode modules can only transmit up to 30km, but with FEC support, they can reach 40km.

Q5: Critical Parameters for Long-Distance Single-Mode Optical Modules

A5: When purchasing 40km/80km optical modules, don’t solely rely on the advertised distance or actual fiber length. Consider both the claimed receiving sensitivity and real-world line attenuation to ensure that the specified 80km optical module indeed performs as expected.

Q6: Demystifying the 1-to-4 Cable

A6: Nearly all 40G QSFP+ ports can be configured to split one 40G connection into four 10G links. Similarly, most modern 100G QSFP28 ports support configuration to split one 100G into either four 10G or four 25G connections. The two types of 1-to-4 cables are DAC and AOC, alongside modules and separate fiber optics.

Q7: Compatibility Codes and Model Differences

A7: Some module compatibility issues may arise due to changes in compatibility code verification mechanisms between different models. Model 2 network cards may necessitate compatibility codes, while Model 1 did not.

Q8: Third-Party Modules and Device Compatibility

A8: Issues with third-party modules not functioning on specific devices may stem from the modules being compatibility-tested with other devices but not the one in question. Compatibility extends beyond coding to various signal specifications.

Q9: Unilateral UP Status — Is This Normal?

A9: It’s common for one end to be UP while the other remains unresponsive. Transmit and receive functions operate independently.

Q10: Tackling Packet Loss and CRC Errors

A10: When encountering packet loss and CRC errors, it’s essential to note that ports receiving CRC errors are receiving them from the other end. Investigate the equipment on the opposite side and the line, particularly if third-party devices are involved.

Q11: Diagnosing Unresponsive Ports

A11: Unresponsive ports can result from various factors such as mismatched auto-negotiation settings, temperature fluctuations, compatibility issues between modules and equipment, incompatibility at either end of the equipment, optical fiber problems, coding discrepancies, FEC settings, excessive optical attenuation, and device-specific behaviors like loop protection and link jitter protection.

13Sep, 2023

GIGALIGHT’s 400G QSFP-DD 2XFR4 Optical Module Offers a New Option for 400G Data Centers

[Shenzhen, China, September 13, 2023] Pursuing the optimal 400G data center configuration has always been a hot topic and focus in the industry. GIGALIGHT recently announced the launch of a 400G QSFP-DD 2×FR4 data center optical module based on the 50G PAM4 DML technology platform, providing a new option for customers’ data center architectures.

The key difference between the newly launched 400G QSFP-DD 2×FR4 and the previous 400G QSFP-DD FR4 lies in the fact that the 400G 2×FR4 optical port supports 8×50G PAM4, while the 400G FR4 optical port supports 4×100G PAM4. Additionally, the 400G QSFP-DD 2×FR4 has networking advantages. It uses Duplex Dual LC optical interfaces, supporting the fan-out of two 200G QSFP56 optical modules, enabling a direct transition from 200G data centers to 400G data centers.

The networking architecture is as follows:

Furthermore, the 400G QSFP-DD 2×FR4, utilizing the 50G PAM4 DML technology platform, also has advantages in terms of cost structure and power consumption. Its main optoelectronic characteristics are as follows.

Eye diagram and sensitivity indicators:

TDECQ per channel is less than the protocol specification of 3.1dB.
RxSens (OMA) sensitivity is better than -5.5dBm @ 2.4e-4 Pre-FEC 26.5625GBd PAM4.
Maximum power consumption of the optical module is less than 9W.

With the maturity of DML technology, cost-effective 400G data center solutions are moving towards maturity and commercialization. Leveraging the fusion of existing 7nm DSP technology and DML technology enables more efficient and cost-effective processing, transmission, and reception of data. This helps reduce the unit bit power consumption, making data centers more energy-efficient and cost-effective. GIGALIGHT will continue to delve into research and development, providing customers with even better internal data center interconnection solutions.

About Gigalight

13Sep, 2023

GIGALIGHT to Unveil Innovative 48G SDI Optical Interconnect Solution at IBC 2023 in Amsterdam

[Shenzhen, China, September 13, 2023] The IBC event is scheduled to take place from September 15th to 18th at the RAI Amsterdam Convention Center. GIGALIGHT, the open optical network device explorer, will be introducing its second-generation mini 48G-SDI (4X12G) broadcast-grade video optical transceiver kit solution at booth 5.B55 (Amsterdam). We extend a warm invitation to our industry colleagues to join us.

In today’s world, 8K represents the pinnacle of television standards, and it’s recognized as the “key technology” for dominating the media landscape. Achieving a 12-bit color depth at 8K resolution is a monumental challenge for manufacturers. It not only demands rigorous adherence to HDR standards but also necessitates a significant jump in near-field transmission bandwidth, from 18G to 48G.

GIGALIGHT’s revolutionary 48G-SDI (4×12G) broadcast-grade video optical transceiver kit solution ingeniously integrates four optical extenders and four 12G SDI optical modules with a wavelength division multiplexer into a single package. This enables an all-in-one application that can transmit four uncompressed 12G-SDI signals over a remarkable 20km span of single-mode optical fiber. This empowers users with the ability to deploy uncompressed 8K SDI baseband optical connections over extended distances swiftly. Our solution finds applications in various dynamic settings, including broadcast television stations, outdoor sports events, large-scale live stage productions, outdoor live broadcasts, and more.

This new launch second-generation 8K 48G SDI solution comprises a mini 48G extender with a QSFP optical interface and a 48G SDI QSFP+ PSM pluggable optical module. This solution boasts high integration and offers the flexibility needed for deployments. The mini optical extender features high-quality HD-BNC interfaces and incorporates 12G-SDI CDR clock data recovery chips to ensure impeccable signal quality.

The 48G SDI QSFP+ PSM4 pluggable optical module meets the stringent requirement of error-free transmission over 20km. It employs GIGALIGHT’s pioneering 4X MINI-TOSA high-reliability optical device solution, complemented by low-power DML lasers, and supports four parallel 3G-SDI/12G-SDI signals. The optical interface uses MPO-12, and the module’s power consumption is under 4W. Furthermore, for customers with specific needs, it can be tailored for CWDM4 wavelengths and can be transmitted through a single optical fiber after multiplexing using an external CWDM4 multiplexer.

Here are the key parameters of GIGALIGHT’s second-generation 8K 48G SDI Optical Transmission Product:

Supports resolutions of up to 2160p/60Hz per channel
Each channel undergoes individual retiming (CDR)
Compatible with various formats, including
- SMPTE ST 2082-1 (11.88Gbps/s)
- SMPTE ST 2081-1 (5.94Gbps/s)
- SMPTE ST 424 (2.97Gbps/s)
- SMPTE ST 292 (1.485Gbps/s)
- SMPTE ST 259 (360Mb/s)
- DVB-ASI (270Mb/s)
- MADI (125Mb/s)
Transmitter equipped with a built-in coaxial cable equalizer:
- 70m at 11.88Gb/s: <0.2UI output jitter
- 90m at 5.94Gb/s: <0.15UI output jitter
- 180m at 2.97Gb/s: <0.1UI output jitter
- 240m at 1.485Gb/s: <0.1UI output jitter
- 300m at 270Mb/s: <0.1UI output jitter

GIGALIGHT The 1st (left) & 2nd Generation 8K 48G SDI

GIGALIGHT stands as one of the pioneering developers and leaders in the global SDI video and high-speed broadcasting optical transmission arena. Discover GIGALIGHT and embark on a journey into the new world of next-generation broadcasting optical networks.

About IBC

IBC stands as the pinnacle of global content and technology gatherings. It unites professionals from the realms of media, entertainment, and technology in an electrifying live event that empowers every participant to access crucial insights, share their expertise, and open doors to countless business opportunities. IBC was conceived “by the industry, for the industry,” a fundamental principle since its inception in 1967 that still holds true today. Over its impressive 56-year history, IBC has consistently adapted to embrace emerging trends and technologies. From its inaugural year, which attracted representatives from 24 countries, IBC has grown to be a global phenomenon, now hosting exhibitors, speakers, and attendees from over 170 nations.

12Sep, 2023

Debunking the Low Entry Barrier Myth in the Optical Module Industry

“Any network engineer who has never encountered the various pitfalls of optical modules/DAC/AOC is certainly not a true network engineer.” Believe me, no one would disagree with this statement. Even the most demanding clients cannot fully eliminate the various problems that can arise due to optical modules/DAC/AOC. This is why many clients, when procuring these network components, would rather pay a higher price to get the original manufacturer’s products. However, even so, it’s still unavoidable to run into issues.

Moreover, the failures encountered by everyone are varied. Some common ones include: ports not coming up, link flapping, a high number of CRC errors, packet loss, optical modules burning out, optical modules going down during operation, packet loss occurring during operation, and so on. The list goes on and on…

China boasts a plethora of optical module manufacturers, a fact that may surprise many. However, it’s important to note that over 90% of these companies are small-scale enterprises, with some even resembling small workshops. This begs the question: Is the barrier to entry in this industry truly as low as it seems? In this article, we aim to shed light on this intriguing topic.

Internal Architecture of Optical Modules

As depicted in the diagram, optical modules comprise several core components. Among these, the transmitter and receiver collectively form the optical transceiver, with the laser being the most pivotal element. Additionally, there are detectors, amplifiers, and IC designs housing MCU control chips running driver programs. Notably, the laser stands out as the most critical and cost-intensive component in optical modules, boasting the highest technological complexity. Generally, the more advanced the optical module product, the greater the proportion of costs attributed to lasers in the overall cost structure. Beyond these, we encounter filters, gold fingers, PCB circuit boards, capacitors, resistors, inductors, EEPROMs, structural components, and hidden elements like solder and adhesives.

Globally, there exists a plethora of manufacturers capable of producing optical modules/AOC/DAC. However, it’s crucial to recognize that all these manufacturers largely rely on a limited pool of suppliers for lasers and MCU chips, primarily sourced from overseas. While some domestic manufacturers are proficient in handling lower-end products, high-end products predominantly hail from foreign suppliers.

So, why is the barrier to entry into the optical module/AOC/DAC industry perceived as low?

For the majority of mature products, the barrier is indeed relatively low in this domain, giving rise to numerous small-scale workshops where a mere few dozen individuals can initiate an optical module venture. The rationale behind this low barrier lies in the fact that optical modules/AOC/DAC are essentially considered pure hardware products. While MCU controllers execute drivers, these are comparatively straightforward, standardized components (although variations exist between manufacturers, leading to compatibility challenges). The core components utilized in these hardware products are readily accessible to all, and manufacturers can easily access reference hardware solutions from prominent suppliers, sometimes even providing pre-assembled boards to downstream manufacturers. For module manufacturers, this implies that many mature products share highly similar technology solutions, with limited technical barriers. This sharply contrasts with switches, where disparities in board design and intricate software systems result in substantial discrepancies in quality and capabilities, despite all switch manufacturers having access to CPUs and switch chips of identical quality.

Where do these disparities originate?

In theory, given standardized specifications and low entry barriers, one might assume minimal differences between module manufacturers. However, reality presents a different picture. Myriad compatibility issues arise between different modules and devices, and even modules of identical type and model from the same manufacturer can exhibit variances when deployed on different devices. Several factors contribute to these disparities, but, in essence, they can be attributed to discrepancies in engineering and supply quality.

PCB quality
Quality of selected capacitors and resistors
Dimensions of gold fingers (length, width, thickness)
Quality of solder
Quality of adhesive
Variations in product design, cost, heat resistance, and high-temperature endurance among different manufacturers
Differences in production testing equipment, the quantity and variety of equipment, automation level, and the availability of third-party equipment like switches/servers and network cards, all leading to variations in product quality and compatibility.
Differences in R&D capabilities and quality control capabilities among different manufacturers.
Variances in the quality of upstream electronic components received by different manufacturers. Generally, larger manufacturers receive higher-quality upstream electronic components.

In summary, while the core chips in optical modules may be mature, substantial disparities exist between modules from different manufacturers. Procuring low-quality modules can lead to a range of peculiar problems, as previously listed.

Furthermore, with market demands evolving swiftly, the research and development of optical modules must continually keep pace. For instance, there is a growing market demand for enhanced cooling of high-speed optical modules, accompanied by a reduction in module size. These factors place greater demands on optical module technology.

In conclusion, while the technology barrier in the optical module industry does indeed exist, it is not exceedingly high. Looking ahead, as market demands continue to evolve, and technology advances, the technology barrier for optical modules is expected to elevate.

As exemplified by some high-end products, there are still relatively few global manufacturers capable of producing them. For instance, in the realm of high-speed optical modules, GIGALIGHT has already achieved rates of 400G and 800G. Moreover, even with identical products, such as 100G single-mode modules, while most manufacturers can only reach a few kilometers, GIGALIGHT can stretch that distance to 90 kilometers. GIGALIGHT is also at the forefront of promoting cutting-edge technology products such as silicon photonics, liquid cooling, and coherent solutions.

11Sep, 2023

GIGALIGHT Presents Multiple Original Interconnection Technologies, Including Silicon Photonics and Immersion Cooling, at ODCC 2023

[Shenzhen, China, Sep 11, 2023]The Open Data Center Committee Summit (ODCC) 2023 is scheduled to be held from September 13th to 14th at the Beijing International Convention Center. GIGALIGHT, an open optical network devices explorer, will be showcasing a range of original interconnection technology solutions, including silicon photonics and immersion cooling.

As ODCC continues to expand, GIGALIGHT has successfully transitioned concepts into tangible products with a variety of original interconnection technologies, including:

400G/800G Series

400G/800G Silicon Photonics Optical Modules

GIGALIGHT’s 400G/800G series leverages its research and development capabilities, unwavering dedication, and support from the silicon photonics industry chain. These modules align seamlessly with silicon photonics technology and 100G PAM4 technology, offering data center networks a reliable performance and a foundation for long-term scalability.

400G QSFP-DD DR4/DR4+ 500m/2km
400G QSFP-DD FR4 2km
400G QSFP112 DR4/DR4+ 500m/2km
800G QSFP-DD DR8/DR8+ 500m/2km

400G/800G VCSEL Series

This series features high-performance 112Gbps VCSEL lasers and 7nm DSP. The electrical host interface supports 112Gbps PAM4 signals per channel, complying with CMIS 4.0 protocol standards.

400G QSFP112 SR4/AOC
400G OSFP112 SR4/AOC
800G QSFP-DD SR8/AOC
800G OSFP SR8/AOC

100G/200G Immersion Cooling Series

To address the burgeoning market demand for liquid-cooled data centers, GIGALIGHT has introduced highly reliable and cost-effective immersion-cooled optical modules. These modules employ a direct immersion cooling method with optimized optical device sealing to prevent cooling liquid from entering the optical path, effectively mitigating any adverse effects on the optical path

100G QSFP28 PSM4 2km
100G QSFP28 SR4/AOC 100m/300m
200G QSFP56 SR4/AOC 100m

100G Triple-Proof Series

Furthermore, GIGALIGHT has developed industry-leading “anti-condensation, anti-moisture, and anti-corrosion” triple-proof optical modules tailored for specific demanding application scenarios. These modules employ advanced processes, including “Paralyne Vacuum Coating” and “3M Coating,” to provide dual protection, ensuring they can thrive even in the harshest environmental conditions.

100G QSFP28 SR4 70m/100m
100G QSFP28 PSM4 2km
100G QSFP28 CWDM4 2km

ODCC serves as the broadest stage in the data center field, and GIGALIGHT extends a warm invitation to industry colleagues to visit our booth and experience our advanced technologies and solutions firsthand.

About Gigalight

2Sep, 2023

Q&A for GIGALIGHT 400G Optical Modules

GIGALIGHT 400G transceivers offer customers a wide variety of super high-density 400 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity options for data centers, enterprise networks, and service provider applications. Here is a list of FAQs about our new generation of 400G transceiver modules.

Q: What 400G transceivers are available from GIGALIGHT?

A: GIGALIGHT supports a full range of 400G optical transceivers in QSFP-DD form factors, 400G AOCs and DACs, and 400G breakout cables. The tables below summarize the 400G connectivity options GIGALIGHT supports.

Q: What are the benefits that GIGALIGHT 400G transceivers can offer?

A: GIGALIGHT 400G transceivers help cloud operators, service providers, and enterprises to achieve higher bandwidth at lower cost and power per gigabit. Key benefits of GIGALIGHT 400G transceivers include:

With QSFPDD form factors to meet your diverse needs of ramping up to 400G transmission.
SiPhbased technology used on some GIGALIGHT 400G transceivers for lower power & cost and higher density.
Compliant with QSFPDD MSA and IEEE 802.3bs, and tested in host devices for proven interoperability, superior performance, quality, and reliability.
Compatible with mainstream brands such as Cisco, Juniper, Arista, Dell, Mellanox, etc.
Simplify your network by reducing the number of optical fiber links, connectors and patch panels by a factor of 4.

Q: What are the application scenarios of GIGALIGHT 400G transceivers?

A: 400G QSFP-DD transceiver modules are the backbone of high-performance 400G networks. GIGALIGHT 400G transceivers can be used in various scenarios. Generally speaking, it depends on the connection distance you want to cover. For example, you can use 400G DAC and AOC cables for shortreach connections between ToR switch and server. For 2km to 10km data center interconnection connections, QSFP-DD FR4 or LR4 modules are better high-quality and economical choices.

Q: What quality certifications do you have for your 400G transceivers?

A: GIGALIGHT 400G transceivers accord with a range of certifications for optical transceivers including ISO 9001:2015, RoHS, REACH, CB, RCM, FCC certificate (EAC Certificate). Rest assured that our products will meet essential quality and safety requirements.

Q: Are GIGALIGHT 400G transceivers compatible with Cisco or Juniper brands?

A: Many of our 400G transceiver modules are compatible with Cisco, Juniper, Arista, Dell, Mellanox, etc. You can always ask for a compatibility test before the purchase to check whether our transceiver is compatible with your devices. If you’re deploying a larger network or upgrading your current data center architecture, compatible transceiver modules may come in handy as they can be immediately installed without compatibility problems and fit right into your data center infrastructure.

Q: Can I plug GIGALIGHT OSFP module into a 400G QSFP-DD port, or GIGALIGHT QSFP-DD module into an OSFP port?

A: No. OSFP and QSFP-DD are two physically distinct form factors. If you have an OSFP system, then GIGALIGHT 400G OSFP modules must be used.

Q: Can I return the product or get a refund?

A: GIGALIGHT wants you to be thrilled with our 400G transceiver modules. However, if you need to return an item or ask to get a refund, we’re here to help. For all 400G transceiver modules, DAC & AOC cables, and breakout cables, you have 30 calendar days to return an item from the date you received it, which means the request must be submitted within the return/exchange window. Refunds will be processed after GIGALIGHT receives and inspects the returned items.