Data Center Architecture & Applications

Data Centre Needs for Optical Interconnect

The landscape of data center networks is experiencing rapid evolution. With substantial growth in IP traffic driven by streaming media, content delivery, remote work, and educational settings, there is a significant surge in demand for high-density, high data rate optics. Operators and engineers across hyperscale, enterprise, and cloud data centers are ramping up port speeds to 400GB while striving to strike a balance between power consumption and port density.

In tandem with this trend, global infrastructure spending has seen an uptick. Ensuring reliable connectivity is paramount for the sustained growth of data centers. Approved Networks collaborates closely with data center operators to anticipate and address the escalating demand. We specialize in providing cost-effective and dependable optical solutions, thereby helping to reduce operational costs while ensuring seamless connectivity.

In the network architecture of a Data Center, the infrastructure is divided into Spine Core, Edge Core, and ToR (Top of Rack) components. Interconnection between the ToR access switches and server NICs is facilitated by the use of 10G SFP+ AOC (Active Optical Cables). For linking ToR access switches with Edge Core switches, 40G QSFP+ SR4 optical transceivers and MTP/MPO cables are employed. Similarly, for interconnecting Edge Core switches with Spine Core switches, 100G QSFP28 CWDM4 optical transceivers and duplex LC cables are utilized.

5G Fronthaul 25G SFP28 Optical Transceiver Modules

The typical architecture for wireless fronthaul comprises distributed RAN (DRAN) or centralized RAN (CRAN). In CRAN mode, baseband units (BBUs) are centralized in a central office. This configuration offers significant advantages, including reduced space and power consumption for auxiliary equipment, such as air conditioners, leading to lower capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX). Moreover, centralized BBUs enable the formation of a BBU baseband pool, facilitating centralized management and scheduling to meet various network requirements. Given the higher construction costs and challenges associated with site acquisition due to the increased number of base stations in 5G networks compared to 4G, CRAN is often preferred for large-scale deployments.

JTOPTICS offers a comprehensive range of 25G SFP28 optical transceiver modules in both grey and colored variants, all of which meet industrial-grade standards. These modules adhere to the SFP28 protocols SFF-8419 and SFF8472, with electrical ports compliant with CEI-28G-VSR specifications. They are designed to comply with 5G fronthaul CPRI/eCPRI specifications and IEEE 802.3 Ethernet standards, supporting data rates of both 24.33Gb/s and 25.78Gb/s.

Customers have the flexibility to choose from different options based on their performance requirements and budget constraints. Our full series of 5G fronthaul 25G SFP28 optical transceiver modules caters to various distributed RAN (DRAN) and centralized RAN (CRAN) application scenarios, ensuring compatibility and reliability across diverse network environments.

Rapid Demand of 200G/400G Migration

The network architecture of the Next-Generation Cloud Data Center typically comprises three layers: Spine Core, Edge Core, and ToR (Top of Rack). JTOPTICS provides an optimal solution for next-generation 200G/400G optical interfaces.

For transmissions spanning less than 5 meters between ToR access switches and server NICs, the 200G solution entails 25G or 50G DAC/AOC interconnects, while the 400G solution involves 50G or 100G DAC/AOC interconnects. DAC (direct-attached copper cable) offers advantages such as lower cost, power consumption, and heat dissipation, whereas AOC (active optical cable) boasts benefits like reduced weight, longer transmission distance, and easier installation and maintenance.

The distance between ToR access switches and Edge Core switches typically spans less than 100 meters. While optical transceivers and MTP/MPO cables can be utilized in this scenario, AOC is predominantly favored. For 200G solutions, the 200G QSFP-DD AOC and 200G QSFP56 AOC are commonly deployed. Notably, the 200G QSFP-DD AOC employs NRZ modulation, whereas the future trend leans toward the 200G QSFP56 AOC adopting PAM4 modulation. Meanwhile, the 400G solution entails the use of 400G QSFP-DD AOC employing 8x 50G PAM4 modulation technology.

Moving to the transmission between Edge Core switches and Spine Core switches, which typically covers less than 2 km, 200G FR4 and 400G FR8 optical transceivers are employed, interconnected with duplex LC cables. For the 200G solution, the 200G QSFP56 FR4 2km optical transceiver and the 200G QSFP-DD PSM8 2km optical transceiver are commonly used, while the 400G solution involves the 400G QSFP-DD FR8 2km optical transceiver.

Facilitating Next-Generation Enterprise Networks

In today's dynamic business landscape, enterprise networks have become increasingly complex, necessitating additional support across campuses, data centers, and telecommunication environments. With over twenty-five years of experience, the Approved Networks family of brands has been a trusted partner, offering unparalleled expertise and guidance in every aspect of critical IT networking. We possess unique insights into how modern companies depend on network connectivity to effectively manage all aspects of their operations. Serving the largest and most diverse global customers in the industry, we deliver cutting-edge optical solutions tailored to meet the evolving needs of our clients.

Our comprehensive range of optical solutions and services simplifies network operations and reduces costs for enterprises of all sizes. From small businesses to large corporations, organizations trust Approved Networks for their connectivity requirements. We enhance bandwidth reliability while simultaneously reducing the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), ensuring that our clients' networks remain robust, efficient, and cost-effective.