Zarlink connects enterprise data centers and high-performance computer clusters

Today 10 Gbps and above data transmission in data centers and high-performance computer clusters is often implemented using CX4 connectors terminating fat copper cable assemblies. The bulk, weight, inflexibility and limited reach of multi-strand copper cable assemblies is increasingly a barrier to installation, maintenance and expansion.

“ZLynx optical cables represent a revolutionary performance leap for data centre operators,” said Dr. Marco Ghisoni, ZLynx product manager, Zarlink Optical Solutions. “ZLynx products drive interconnect reach 10 times further than copper, while eliminating weight, interference and flexibility concerns as data centers expand. For the end-user, standardised port connectors means these performance advantages can be realised seamlessly and without any system, server or network hardware upgrades.”

Zarlink’s ZLynx products are one-piece fiber optic cable assemblies with integrated, industry-standard electrical terminations capable of 20 Gbps transmission in both directions and 5 Gbps duplex 4-channel data transmission, for distances up to 100 meters. The standard connector, compact size and robust latch mechanism allow ease-of-use with most equipment chassis. The optical cable uses 3.3-volt supplied directly from the electrical port connector. Typical power consumption is just 1 watt per connector.

Current sampling, Zarlink’s ZLynx products target InfiniBand DDR (dual data rate) at 4 x 5 Gbps per channel and 10 GbE XAUI at 4 x 3.125 Gbps applications. Pre-production units are available, with general availability in Q2CY07. This will be the first in the ZLynx family of optical cables available at cable lengths up to 100 meters and terminated with a number of high-speed electrical connectors.

Zarlink will be demonstrating its ZLynx optical cable products at the Optical Fiber Communication conference in Anaheim, California (March 27-29, Booth#3659).