Point2 Technology’s big step to increasing the efficiency of data transmissions is nothing short of remarkable. They’ve created the game-changing e-Tube cable that’s 1.6 terabits per second! It is a truly remarkable new solution that utilizes eight thin, polymer-based waveguides. Each waveguide can carry an astounding 448 gigabits per second utilizing two separate frequencies—90 gigahertz and 225 gigahertz. Point2 is on a mission to make the data center world more efficient and beautiful. Delivering 20 times better performance than its predecessors, it is addressing a rapidly expanding insatiable demand for faster, reliable data connectivity.
The e-Tube cable is another impressive optical breakthrough. It additionally enables multi-gigabit data transfers across long distances up to 20 meters. Point2’s cable has better performance than standard copper cables. It occupies only half the space of a 32-gauge copper cable, making it a smaller, more efficient drop cable replacement. The company believes that its solution will lead to substantial improvements in both speed and reliability for data center operations.
Key Features of the E-Tube Cable
Point2 Technology’s e-Tube cable includes a single silicon chip that rapidly and efficiently converts incoming digital data into modulated millimeter-wave frequencies. This ground-breaking design incorporates an integrated antenna that radiates signals into the waveguide, providing ultra-low latency and ultra-high-speed data transmission. The company’s engineers joined forces with researchers from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology. Jointly, they pushed 28-nanometer CMOS technology all the way to performance’s ceiling.
Point2’s technology reduces that signal degradation to a stunningly low 0.3 db/m loss. This performance is a dramatic departure from the 224 gigabits per second that traditional copper cables can carry. Shimano’s e-Tube system is remarkable in that it goes above and beyond the competition in power consumption. It consumes only one-third of the energy required by optical solutions and is only one-third the cost of traditional solutions.
Point2 Technology is a company that was started almost nine years ago by industry veterans from such well known technology companies as Marvell, Nvidia, and Samsung. Their combined experience and focus on cutting edge research has made Point2 a leader in the development of sophisticated long range data transmission technologies. The company has added $55 million in venture funding under their belts, though! This ambitious accomplishment received enthusiastic support from Molex, a global leader in manufacturing computer internetworking cables and connections.
Comparison with Traditional Technologies
Point2 recently released its e-tube cable. This launch comes at a time when increasing numbers of companies are turning to fiber optics as the main means of transmitting data. As Dave Welch points out, “Customers love fiber. But what they hate is the photonics.” This second sentiment, though, illustrates the great promise and peril of optical technologies, especially as it relates to complexity and reliability.
We’ve found that electronics are inherently more reliable than optical systems. Welch drives home this important point when he reminds us that, “Electronics have already proved themselves to be less inherently reliable than optics.” Point2 has been on the cutting edge in this industry. Its e-Tube technology is proving to be a more efficient and long-lasting solution for decades-long problems.
Don Barnetson adds valuable insight regarding the transition from copper to advanced technologies: “You start with passive copper, and you do everything you can to run in passive copper as long as you can.” This perspective highlights the existing reliance on copper cables while pointing toward a future where solutions like Point2’s e-Tube can redefine performance standards.
Future Implications and Industry Impact
Point2 Technology’s innovations are a game changer not just for the aerial market, but for the overall cable-and-connector ecosystem. The company’s deal with Broadcom is especially key, since Broadcom is one of the biggest players in this industry. Their backing boosts Point2’s competitive position in the market place and improves its functionality to compete with traditional technologies.
Looking to the future, Point2 plans to increase the length and capacity of its e-Tube cable to cover longer distances and support more riders. Welch poses an intriguing question that reflects the ongoing quest for innovation: “If I didn’t have to be at [an optical wavelength], where should I be?” This question shines a light on the absolute necessity to keep searching for different technologies that can escape the status quo.