Credo has taken a very technological jump here with their data center technology. They recently revealed their work on a breakthrough Active Electrical Cable (AEC) which is capable of transmitting an astounding 800 gigabits per second (Gb/s) over lengths of up to 7 meters. This announcement comes at a time when data centers are more committed than ever to improving efficiency and cutting costs. Don Barnetson, senior vice president and head of product at Credo, told us that increasing data throughput was essential. He emphasized the trickiest part – consistently keeping reliability first in the process.
Credo’s AEC is set to change the game on how data centers address connectivity. It does provide a high-speed choice that functions effectively over shorter distances. This innovation amplifies other emerging technologies that are taking root in the networking landscape. Point2 Technology is creating a buzz in the industry with its revolutionary, e-Tube cable. Leveraging the most advanced polymer waveguide technology, this product offers industry-leading performance statistics.
The Rise of e-Tube Technology
Point2 has created the e-Tube cable, which is made up of eight thin polymer waveguides. Each waveguide can transmit a staggering 448 Gb/s using two frequencies at 90 gigahertz (GHz) and 225 GHz. This design allows the e-Tube cable to help distribute big data loads without choking under pressure. In addition, it only occupies half the volume of a standard 32-gauge copper cable.
The e-Tube cable is currently starting production of chips that can handle a shocking 1.6 terabits per second (Tb/s). If realized, this breakthrough would revolutionize how data is transmitted efficiently and over greater distances throughout data centers. It provides over 20 times the reach of traditional copper wires. David Kuo, vice president of product marketing and business development at Point2 Technology, highlighted the implications for data centers facing increasing bandwidth demands.
“We call it the copper cliff.” – David Kuo
Meanwhile, data transmission needs are growing exponentially. With long-distance commuting becoming more common, the e-Tube cable’s capacity to provide amazing performance over greater distances has been necessary. Most importantly, Kuo underscored the merit of their tech. He emphasized that unlike expensive optical solutions, the e-Tube cable uses one-third of the power and is more cost-effective.
The Competitive Edge in Data Transmission
AttoTude, a startup promoting terahertz frequency solutions, offers up another exciting cable technology alternative. Their new system has a digital twin that interacts with graphics processing units (GPUs). It’s equipped with a terahertz frequency generator and mixer, which collectively help to encode data onto the terahertz signal. This method gains operational efficiency and takes latency to new, unprecedented lows in optical technology.
During a recent high-speed rail conference Dave Welch, a technology industry expert, highlighted some key differences between electronic and optical technologies. “Customers love fiber. What they hate is the photonics,” he stated, reflecting on the challenges faced by those who adopt fiber optics in their infrastructure. Welch noted that “electronics have been demonstrated to be inherently more reliable than optics,” emphasizing a growing preference for electronic solutions in data centers.
Moreover, Welch questioned the necessity of operating within traditional optical wavelengths by asking, “If I didn’t have to be at [an optical wavelength], where should I be?” This feeling embodies a larger momentum in the industry toward innovating and understanding exciting new wavelengths and mediums for data transport at scale.
The Push Towards Passive Copper Solutions
While data center operators are looking to create more efficient networks, the majority of them continue to lead with passive copper solutions. Don Barnetson explained, “You start with passive copper, and you do everything you can to run in passive copper as long as you can.” This approach stems from a desire to maximize existing infrastructure before transitioning to newer technologies. The industry’s trend towards liquid cooling is a direct response to the necessity of scaling up capabilities while relying on passive copper systems.
Credo’s AEC and Point2 Technology’s e-Tube cable are examples of amazing innovation. These breakthroughs undoubtedly steer us in the direction of smarter, better ways to move data. The demand for bandwidth is out of this world. Luckily, these advancements offer exciting new smart solutions that help relieve pressure on current infrastructure while improving efficiency.
