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NeoPhotonics has announced that it has begun sampling a Twin 8x16 Multicast Switch (MCS) module with an integrated amplifier array for use in high performance colorless-directionless-contentionless (CDC) networks. The 8x16 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. This new MCS joins the NeoPhotonics family of Multicast Switch products, which are available in 4x4 and 4x16 configurations and are currently in volume production.
NeoPhotonics Multicast Switches are designed to be used in a next generation ROADM 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), thereby 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.
This new 8x16 series MCS uses NeoPhotonics's advanced hybrid photonic integration platform to provide cost effective, low loss switching functionality which, when coupled with amplifier arrays, allows for simple integration into existing networks, as well as in new network buildouts. For more information on how Multicast Switches increase network efficiency, please refer to the following blog posts: “How Multicast Switches Work”, Part 1 and Part 2, and “Multicast Switches Boost Network Flexibility”.
This new MCS, along with NeoPhotonics broad suite of products for line and client side 100G and beyond products, will be displayed at the OFC Conference and Exhibition in Los Angeles, California, March 21-23, 2017.
