Optical components, modules and subsystems developer Oclaro Inc of San Jose, CA, USA says it has achieved a milestone towards the development of a 100G coherent CFP2 pluggable module based on a new generation of indium phosphide (InP) photonic components that can deliver the high density, low power dissipation, and reduced cost that customers need in order to drive coherent technology into next generation metro and long-haul markets.
Being able to bring 100G coherent transmission technology into a pluggable form factor was problematic because of the challenges associated with power dissipation, performance, and size, says the firm. However, Oclaro's recent achievements in its high-volume InP technology have now put this goal within reach. As part of its development program, Oclaro was able to demonstrate that its transmitter can achieve the high electro-optic bandwidth and low power dissipation to meet the requirements of an analog coherent CFP2.
The integrated 100G transmitter replaces two discrete narrow linewidth tunable lasers (typically external cavity iTLAs), and an external Mach-Zehnder modulator with a single component that serves as both the transmitter and as the local oscillator for the coherent receiver. Combined with Oclaro's next generation InP-based micro coherent receiver and its high speed electronics expertise, the firm is now in a position to bring a coherent CFP2 pluggable module to market.
"With this accomplishment, Oclaro has reaffirmed its leadership position in indium phosphide technology and is now in an excellent position to deliver a new generation of highly disruptive pluggable modules for coherent applications," says Jim Haynes, president of global business for Oclaro. "We are excited that Oclaro will enable its customers to drive the growth of coherent technology into the metro and long haul markets where higher density and lower power dissipation are critical requirements and where pluggability offers significant benefits."
The coherent CFP2 production ramp is expected for mid-2014. Oclaro's full line-up of products will be on show at the OFC/NFOEC conference (19-21 March) in Anaheim, California, USA.
