This development comes in response to the growing demand driven by generative AI and machine learning workflows. The Molex VaporConnect Optical Feedthrough Modules for two-phase immersion cooling offer a unique cassette-based design that directly bolts onto immersion tanks, allowing optical transceivers and network cabling to be swapped without altering the mechanical setup or affecting the tank’s architecture. Commercial availability of reference designs for these modules is anticipated in the first quarter of 2025.
“Molex continually embraces innovative optical solutions to ease data centre deployments and upgrades while alleviating critical thermal management challenges,” said Trevor Smith, General Manager, Optical Connectivity, Molex. “VaporConnect gives customers the flexibility to upgrade connectivity and scale cooling system designs to keep pace with data centre growth by simply deploying a different module, which will accelerate upgrades while reducing overall energy, cooling and technology costs.”
Two-phase immersion cooling
The Molex VaporConnect Optical Feedthrough Modules streamline the connection between optical transceivers located within immersion tanks and external cabling infrastructure through fully upgradeable sealed modules. With VaporConnect, all sealing and cabling tasks are managed inside the module, giving users the ability to upgrade connectors without impacting the overall tank design or structure. Furthermore, standard cabling infrastructure can be reused across multiple product generations, reducing complexity, deployment time, and costs.
A wide range of industry-standard and Molex optical connector formats are available, covering single- and multi-mode fibre solutions. The modules support mix-and-match functionality, which facilitates upgrades to newer or higher-density connectors. Customisable module footprints are also available to meet specific space and application requirements.
Additionally, the modules minimise external patching and complex shuffling thanks to the use of Molex FlexPlane optical circuitry technology. This integrates complex optical shuffling and high-density fibre routing within the module itself, allowing for simple installation and plug-and-play operation.
Optical interconnections
Each VaporConnect module includes a sealing gasket, tested with industry-standard helium-leak testing to ensure a reliable seal with the tank wall. This ensures smooth transitions between server line cards inside the tank and the external cabling infrastructure. The modules are currently undergoing compliance testing with GR-1435-CORE standards.
VaporConnect modules can be customised to meet specific customer requirements, with the number of fibre channels dependent on the connectors used. A single module can integrate up to 576 fibres. Various form factor options, including MPO, LC, and very small form factor (VSFF) connectors, such as MMC, MDC, SN, and SN-MT, are available to support system upgrades while conforming to existing infrastructure. Molex is also developing an EBO connector option, expected to be available in the first half of 2025.
As the one of largest manufacturers of Optical Feedthrough Modules for two-phase immersion cooling, Molex has shipped over 350,000 optical channels to date. At ECOC 2024, Molex will highlight its dedication to optical network infrastructure innovation with a showcase of the new VaporConnect Optical Feedthrough Modules, alongside its comprehensive range of optical connectivity, optoelectronics, and wavelength management solutions, at Stand C75. Molex is also participating in an interoperability demonstration at Booth B83 as part of its involvement in the OIF, focusing on optical networking solutions for data centres, AI/ML technologies, and disaggregated systems.
