Development of a compact multifiber optical connector for use with optical modules - Realizing high-density optical connections in next-generation data centers -

Issues and Background of Data Centers

Demand for data centers is increasing rapidly with the spread of AI technology and the expansion of cloud services. Due to this growth, data communication volume is predicted to increase approximately sevenfold between 2020 and 2030. At the same time, this rapid increase in traffic will also lead to an increase in electricity consumption, with data centers as a whole expected to require more than 180 TWh of electricity in 2030 (see figure below).

To address this situation, the introduction of Co-Packaged Optics (CPO), a next-generation communications technology, is attracting attention. CPO achieves both energy-saving performance and improved bandwidth by integrating switching logic and optical I/O. However, this technology requires the use of compact optical connectors that maximize space efficiency inside switch boxes. Conventional MPO connectors have issues in being able to handle limited spaces and harsh temperature environments.

The "MTCT Connector" developed by our company is an innovative solution to solve these problems. This will not only support the operational efficiency of data centers, but also make a significant contribution to the construction of next-generation communications infrastructure.

Development Goals of MTCT Connector

In developing MTCT connector, we have three main goals:

1. Realizing high-density optical connections
   It enables many optical connections in a limited space, maximizing the functionality of devices.
2. Highly flexible structural design
   Reassembly is possible even after MT Ferrule and optical fiber are fixed, allowing for flexible consideration of the assembly process flow.
3. Excellent environmental resistance
   The product also meets the reliability evaluation tests (Telcordia GR-1435-2 compliant) required for multifiber optical connector in data centers, providing high reliability.

Features of MTCT connector

MTCT connectors are designed to meet the stringent requirements of next generation devices with the following features:

1. Compact design and high performance
   The thickness is less than half that of conventional MPO connectors. It is also shorter in length than MPO-MPO connection structures, greatly improving space efficiency.
2. High temperature reflow compatible and reassembleable structure
   The parts can be disassembled and reassembled even after the optical fiber is fixed to the ferrule, allowing for flexibility in the assembly process flow of the optical connector.
3. High-precision ferrule technology
   The MTCOMPACT Slim and Short ferrule, which is 1/4 the size of a standard MT Ferrule, keeps the axis misalignment error of the optical fiber hole to less than 1 μm and maintains Insertion Loss at the industry standard of less than 0.7 dB.

Contributing to next-generation data centers

MTCT connector meets the needs of optical device and AI manufacturers developing CPO switch designs and offers the following benefits:

• Increased design freedom: Improved space efficiency allows for greater flexibility in internal design.
• Improve manufacturing efficiency: Rebuildable design reduces assembly costs.
• Provides high reliability: Provides stable performance over the long term.

Through our MTCT connectors, we can help you solve the issues necessary to build a next-generation communications infrastructure. Please feel free to contact us for more details or case studies.

reference

• Data center traffic growth (forecast to 2030)
  Source: Minkenberg, C., et al., “Co-packaged datacenter optics: Opportunities and challenges,” IET Optoelectron., 2021, 15, 77–91.
  We use the predictions for growth in communication traffic within data centers presented in this paper as a reference.
• Data Center Power Consumption Forecast (Up to 2030)
  Source: Goldman Sachs Insights
  It is expected that the evolution of AI will lead to increased electricity demand at data centers.

Technical Background: Benefits and Challenges of Introducing CPO

• Source: COBO “Design Considerations of Optical Connectivity in a Co-Packaged or On-Board Optics Switch,” White Paper.
• Specific background information on CPO technology is provided.