800G Is Coming: Set Pace to Higher Speed Applications

In the rapidly evolving landscape of data center connectivity, the quest for faster and more efficient networking solutions has become paramount. As demands for higher bandwidth and performance escalate, the emergence of 800G Ethernet switches and pluggable optical modules stands at the forefront of innovation. With data centers striving to manage exponential growth in data traffic, the focus on 800G Ethernet and optical module standards has intensified, marking a pivotal shift in network infrastructure. Let's delve into the key developments and advancements shaping the trajectory of 800G networking technologies.

The Focus of 800G Ethernet and Optical Transceiver Standards

Compared to 200G and 400G Ethernet, 800G is relatively novel. While 400G Ethernet optical transceivers are primarily utilized in hyperscale data centers, and many enterprise operations currently operate at 40G or 100G, the development of data center connectivity has shifted towards 800G. An important attribute of 800G technology is its ability to increase fiber capacity or extend wavelengths on any path through remotely adjustable line rates. With 800G solutions, network operators, services, and content providers can achieve greater throughput for each wavelength they deploy or extend wavelengths to longer distances without regeneration. Let’s run down the main important ones and get the points of them.

800GBASE-R Will Repurpose the 400GE Logic to Save Cost as Possible

Till now, the IEEE organization hasn't worked on the 800G Ethernet standard. But the 25 Gigabit Ethernet Consortium, now renamed as Ethernet Technology Consortium (ETC), has announced the 800GBASE-R specification for 800 Gigabit Ethernet (GbE) in April 2020. As the ETC claims, the goal of this 800GBASE-R specification is to repurpose the standard 400GbE logic as much as possible to create an 800 GbE MAC (media access control) and PCS (Physical Coding Sublayer) specification and to reduce the cost for users implementing multi-rate Ethernet ports. It can be regarded as a wider version of 400G Ethernet, and introduces new MAC and PCS. Still based on the existing 106.25G lanes which were pioneered in 400G Ethernet, this 800GBASER specification aims to double the number of total lanes from 4 to 8 in PCS. Though it seems to be a simple change in concept, it will require a great amount of work and tech skills to bond together the additionally added lanes in this fashion.

800G Pluggable MSA Defines the 800G-SR8 and 800G-FR4 Scenarios

The 800GBASE-R standard defines the basic layer of 800G networks, and it is looking to double performance once again, to feed ever-hungrier datacenters. Besides the layer, the specification of the 800G optical transceiver module is another key point that needs to be concerned. The 800G Pluggable MSA (Multi sources Agreement) group released an 800G specification targeted PAM4-based aggregate 800 Gps Ethernet transmission for data center applications in September 2019.

• 800G-SR8: a low-cost 8x100G module for SR applications, covering the sweet spot of 60-100 meters based on SMF solution.

• 800G-FR4: new FEC is needed for this 4x200G module application.

FS 800G-SR8, a cutting-edge solution tailored for 800G Ethernet applications. This module boasts support for link lengths of up to 50 meters over multi-mode fiber (MMF) via MTP/MPO-16 connectors, ensuring seamless connectivity within data center environments. Compliant with IEE802.3ck, CMIS 5.0, and QSFP-DD MSA standards, it guarantees interoperability and reliability. What sets it apart is its built-in digital diagnostics monitoring (DDM), granting access to real-time operating parameters for enhanced performance monitoring and management.

Besides, this specification also put the possible pluggable optical modules, potentially in QSFP112-DD and OSFP 32 form factors, as the interface mechanism, and believes that pluggable form still is the ideal interface for data center operators to require 800G.

QSFP-DD800 MSA Brings the 800G Optical Transceiver Hardware Specification

Another transceiver MSA group consisting of Cisco, Broadcom, Juniper, Intel, etc. also think the pluggable form factor is an ideal choice for data center connectivity. This group recently brought the first release version of 800G QSFP Double Density (QSFP-DD800) pluggable optical transceiver connector and case system standards, defining the 800G optical transceiver form factor - QSFP-DD800. It's said that the QSFP-DD800 supports 8 high-speed electrical interfaces connecting to the host, each lane is 100G/s. And it's able to be compatible with the previous QSFP-DD or QSFP modules including QSFP+, QSFP28, QSFP56, and 400G QSFP-DD, providing network operators tremendous commercial and operational advantages during the 800G network deployment.

Current Status of 800G Optical Modules and Technologies

Though the necessary specifications of 800G Ethernet and optical modules are relatively completed, it's likely that they need to be revised or perfected later in accordance with practical applications. And this situation won't affect the increasing development of fiber optic modules in high-speed data center connectivity. The availability of high-volume, low-cost optics will remain the enabler of all speed transitions. As the network speed increases beyond 800 Gbps, the pluggable optics will hit density and power issues. When this occurs, alternative technologies like co-packaged optics (CPO) may be needed.

The deployment of 800G pluggable optical modules for "client-side" applications faces delays due to structural complexities, presenting significant challenges for optics components. However, advancements are underway, with the 800G Pluggable MSA group prototyping subcomponents and the first 800G modules expected to sample in 2021. In parallel, "line-side" 800G networks are familiar territory for brand network operators, with solutions like Ciena's WaveLogic 5 Extreme and Huawei's 800G tunable ultra-high-speed optical modules already delivering impressive capacity and flexibility. Integration of these solutions may entail higher costs compared to current network speeds..

Are 800G Optical Modules Far Away?

As hyper-scale data centers continue to grapple with the surge in data traffic, 800G Ethernet switches and pluggable optical modules will offer some relief. With the rollout of 800G Ethernet switches to the market, 800G optical modules are also gradually becoming available in QSFP-DD800 and OSFP specifications. Looking ahead, the adoption of 200G signaling per channel will provide additional enhancement for 800G deployments and pave the way for 1.6Tb Ethernet.

In anticipation of the rapid evolution of high-speed applications, it's evident that the deployment of 800G optics is imminent to meet the escalating demands for data transmission and connectivity in modern data centers. At FS, we're committed to staying at the forefront of technological advancements, offering a comprehensive range of high-quality optical transceivers and networking solutions tailored to your specific needs. Partner with FS today to unlock the full potential of your network and stay ahead in the era of 800G connectivity.