Active Optical Cables
Company Profile
Since 2015, D-NET has established itself as a leading Chinese manufacturer and supplier of optical communication products, specializing in the R&D, production, and sales of fiber-optic equipment at our state-of-the-art factory. Our core competency stems from a professional research and development team that relentlessly pursues advancements in optical communication technology. Guided by market demands, this highly skilled group consistently introduces competitive, high-performance products across ten or more series, encompassing optical modules, passive devices, CWDM/DWDM systems, and beyond. As a one-stop supplier catering to diverse industries, we provide comprehensive, customizable solutions and exceptional services to our valued customers. Through our innovative and reliable offerings, we foster global business growth, solidifying our position as a trusted supplier in China and beyond.
Why choose us?
High quality
Our products are manufactured or executed to very high standards, using the finest materials and manufacturing processes.
Long warranty
The long-term warranty is designed to give consumers more confidence that their purchases and services will continue to be valid.
Professional team
Our professional team collaborate and communicate effectively with one another, and are committed to delivering high-quality results. They are capable of handling complex challenges and projects that require their specialized expertise and experience.
Rich experience
Dedicated to strict quality control and attentive customer service, our experienced staff is always available to discuss your requirements and ensure complete customer satisfaction.
What is Active Optical Cables
Active Optical Cables (AOCs) are fiber optic cables that contain integrated electronics, such as drivers and receivers, to transmit signals over longer distances than traditional copper cables or passive optical cables. They utilize VCSEL (Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Laser) technology at the source end and a photodiode at the receiver end.
The integration of active components allows AOCs to support higher bandwidths and longer lengths without the need for external transceivers. This makes them ideal for applications such as high-speed computing, data center networking, and server clustering where low latency and high throughput are critical.
Benefits of Active Optical Cables
Extended reach
One of the primary advantages of AOCs is their ability to transmit data over longer distances without the need for signal regeneration. While passive optical cables might suffer from signal attenuation after a certain distance, AOCs can maintain signal integrity over distances exceeding 100 meters, which is particularly useful in backplane and data center applications.
High bandwidth capacity
AOCs are designed to handle high data rates, with capacities ranging from several Gbps up to multiple Tbps, depending on the design and specifications of the cable. This makes them ideal for applications that require fast and reliable data transfer, such as high-resolution video streaming or large-scale data processing.
Lower power consumption
Compared to traditional active networking equipment, AOCs consume less power because they only need to power the active electronics at each end of the cable. This results in reduced energy costs and a smaller carbon footprint, which is increasingly important in the context of sustainability initiatives.
Reduced latency
The integrated electronics in AOCs can provide signal conditioning and error correction on the fly, reducing the likelihood of errors and minimizing latency. This is crucial in applications where real-time data processing is essential, such as financial trading systems or industrial control networks.
Ease of deployment
AOCs eliminate the need for separate transceivers, simplifying the installation process and reducing the physical clutter within the network infrastructure. This can lead to faster setup times and easier maintenance.
Immunity to electromagnetic interference (EMI)
Unlike copper cables, optical cables are immune to EMI, which can disrupt data transmission and cause errors. AOCs maintain this immunity while providing active signal processing capabilities.
Physical robustness
Despite the integration of electronics, AOCs are often engineered to withstand the rigors of daily use in a network environment. They are typically designed with protective coatings and robust connectors to resist physical strain and environmental stress.
Form factor compatibility
AOCs come in various industry-standard form factors (e.g., SFP, QSFP, etc.), allowing them to seamlessly integrate with existing hardware and network equipment without the need for additional adapters or modifications.
Types of Active Optical Cables
Small form-factor pluggable (SFP) AOCs
These AOCs are designed to be hot-swappable and are commonly used in data center environments where space is at a premium. They typically support data rates up to 25 Gbps and can be used for short to medium-length transmissions.
Quad small form-factor pluggable (QSFP) AOCs
Similar to SFPs but with four channels, QSFP AOCs can achieve higher data rates, often exceeding 100 Gbps, by using parallelized data streams. They are suitable for high-density computing environments requiring high bandwidth.
QSFP28 AOCs
An extension of QSFP AOCs, QSFP28s specifically support 28-channel operation, enabling data rates of up to 100 Gbps per cable. They are widely used in high-performance computing and interconnect applications.
QSFP-DD (quad small form-factor pluggable - double density) AOCs
These AOCs are an evolution of QSFP AOCs, designed to support double the density, offering data rates up to 200 Gbps. QSFP-DD AOCs are used in next-generation data centers and high-speed networking.
OSFP (octal small form-factor pluggable) AOCs
OSFP AOCs provide an alternative to QSFP-DD with similar data rates but a larger form factor that allows for better cooling and more advanced features. They are used in applications requiring high power and high-speed connectivity, such as 400 Gbps links.
Thunderbolt AOCs
Designed specifically for consumer and enterprise laptops, desktops, and peripherals that support the Thunderbolt interface, these AOCs enable high-speed data transfers, video output, and charging through a single cable.
InfiniBand AOCs
Used primarily in high-performance computing (HPC) environments, InfiniBand AOCs are designed to meet the high-throughput requirements of HPC clusters and storage networks. They support multiple data rates, such as FDR (Fully Depleted Refresh), EDR (Enhanced Depleted Refresh), HDR, and more recently, HDR100 and XDR.
Ethernet AOCs
These AOCs are designed for use with Ethernet networks and come in various speeds, including 1G, 10G, 25G, 40G, 50G, 100G, and higher, to match the Ethernet standards. Ethernet AOCs are widely used in data centers and cloud computing infrastructure.
Active Optical Cables (AOCs) are constructed using a combination of optical and electronic materials to facilitate high-speed data transmission over long distances. The key components and materials of an AOC typically include:
Optical fiber core: The core is made of pure silica glass or plastic and serves as the light guide within the cable. Single-mode fibers are used for longer distances and higher bandwidths, while multimode fibers are suitable for shorter distances and lower costs.
Cladding: Surrounding the core is a cladding material with a lower refractive index than the core. This is usually made of the same material as the core but doped with other elements to reduce its refractive index, thus confining the light within the core.
Buffer coating: To protect the fiber from mechanical damage, a buffer coating is applied. This is typically a UV-curable acrylate gel or a polyimide layer.
Strength members: Materials such as aramid yarns, glass yarns, or steel wires may be included to enhance the tensile strength of the cable.
Jacket material: The outermost layer of an AOC is the cable jacket, which protects the internal components from environmental conditions. Common materials for the jacket include PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen), or fluorinated polymers for enhanced fire resistance and toxicity reduction.
Electronic modules: Integrated into the connector ends of an AOC, these modules contain active components such as VCSELs (Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers) for transmitting light and PIN photodiodes or avalanche photodiodes for receiving light. These modules also include circuits for signal modulation, amplification, and error correction.
Circuit boards and components: Within the electronic modules, there may be printed circuit boards (PCBs) with surface-mount technology (SMT) components, which could include transistors, capacitors, inductors, and microchips.
Connectors: The connectors at either end of an AOC are precision-engineered to align the optical fiber with the electronic module. Common connector types include LC (Lucent Connector), SC (Subscriber Connector), and MPO (Multi-Fiber Push On), all made from durable materials like zirconia-ceramic ferrules and metal shells.
The choice of materials for each component in an AOC is critical to ensure optimal performance, reliability, and durability. Manufacturers carefully select materials that can withstand environmental stresses, such as temperature changes, bending, and tension, while maintaining the integrity of the high-speed optical signal.
Application of Active Optical Cables
Data centers
In the rapidly evolving landscape of data centers, AOCs are instrumental in connecting servers, storage systems, and networking equipment. Their ability to handle high data rates over longer distances without signal degradation makes them ideal for the backbones of data center infrastructures, facilitating fast interconnects between racks and across data halls.
High-performance computing (HPC)
For applications requiring immense computational power, such as weather forecasting, bioinformatics, and financial modeling, AOCs provide the necessary bandwidth and low latency to link compute nodes effectively.
Storage area networks (SANs)
SANs rely on AOCs to connect servers to mass storage devices such as disk arrays and tape libraries. The high throughput and low error rates of AOCs ensure efficient data storage and retrieval.
Telecommunications
Within the telecommunications industry, AOCs are used for interconnecting network equipment, including switches, routers, and cross-connect systems, especially in metropolitan area networks where fiber optic connections are required over relatively short to medium distances.
Infiniband connectivity
AOCs are frequently employed in InfiniBand fabrics, which provide high-speed data movement between processors, storage, and network interfaces in HPC, cloud computing, and massively parallel processing environments.
Video wall connectivity
In digital signage and video wall installations, AOCs can transmit uncompressed high-definition video from a central location to displays spread across large areas without the need for signal repeaters or distribution amplifiers.
Thunderbolt technology
AOCs designed for Thunderbolt interfaces enable users to connect peripheral devices such as external storage, displays, and network adaptors with high bandwidth and low latency, providing an efficient and versatile connection for personal computers and laptops.
Industrial automation
In industrial settings where real-time control and monitoring are crucial, AOCs provide the robust and reliable data transmission necessary for closed-loop control systems, machine vision, and sensor networks.
Medical imaging
For applications in medical imaging, such as MRI or CT scanners, AOCs deliver the high bandwidth and low latency needed to transmit large volumes of data quickly and accurately.
Military and aerospace
Due to their reliability and resistance to electromagnetic interference, AOCs are used in critical military and aerospace applications, where data integrity and security are paramount.
Process of Active Optical Cables
Design and prototyping
Engineers design the cable specifications based on the desired performance parameters such as bandwidth, length, and connector type. Computer-aided design (CAD) software is used to create detailed drawings. Prototypes are then manufactured for testing to validate the design.
Component manufacturing
● Optical Fibers: Specialty fibers are produced through processes like chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and drawing. The fibers are tested for attenuation, dispersion, and bend resistance.
● Electronic Modules: Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are fabricated with the necessary electronic components like lasers, photodiodes, and integrated circuits (ICs). These are surface-mounted using automated placement machines and reflow soldering processes.
● Connectors: Precision-machined ferrule assemblies are plated and polished for low insertion loss. Shells are assembled around the ferrules and prepared for mating.
Assembly
● Cable Assembly: The optical fibers are carefully drawn through a buffer tube and then into a protective outer jacket. Strength members may be added to enhance the pull strength of the cable. The cable is then tested for tensile strength and flexibility.
● Fiber Preparation: At one end of the fiber, a pigtail is created by splicing a short length of fiber with a connectorized ferrule. This pigtail will mate with the electronic module.
● Module Integration: The pigtailed fiber is connected to the electronic module through a flexible circuit or direct wire bonding. This assembly is tested for optical and electrical performance.
Testing
Each AOC undergoes extensive testing to ensure it meets the design criteria. This includes:
● Optical Performance Tests: Measurements of insertion loss, return loss, and bandwidth are conducted to ensure signal quality.
● Electrical Performance Tests: Tests verify the electrical integrity of the signals, including voltage and current levels, impedance, and timing.
● Environmental Testing: Thermal cycling, vibration, and shock tests simulate real-world conditions to assess the cable's durability.
Certification and quality control
Once the cables pass all tests, they undergo certification processes. Batch samples may be retested to confirm the quality of the entire production run. Quality control checks are performed throughout the production line to prevent defects from reaching the final product.
Packaging and shipping
Certified AOCs are packaged according to safety and handling standards. Proper packaging ensures the cables arrive undamaged at their destination. They are then shipped to distributors, retailers, or directly to customers.
Components of Active Optical Cables
Optical fiber
The core of any optical cable, including AOCs, is the optical fiber. It consists of a core surrounded by cladding, which is itself covered by a protective buffer coating. High-quality single-mode or multi-mode fibers are chosen for their ability to carry light signals over long distances with minimal signal loss.
Electronic modules
These modules contain the active electronics that convert electrical signals to optical signals and vice versa. They typically include a laser or light-emitting diode (LED) for transmitting data and a photodiode for receiving data. Integrated circuits (ICs) are also part of this module, managing signal processing tasks such as modulation, demodulation, and error correction.
Connectors
Connectors are precision-engineered components that allow AOCs to interface with other hardware. They must be highly accurate to maintain signal integrity. Common types of connectors used with AOCs include SC, LC, ST, and MPO/MTP. These connectors are equipped with precision-ground and polished ferrule assemblies to align the fiber cores with those of mating connectors.
Cable structure
The cable structure provides mechanical protection for the optical fibers and electronic modules while maintaining flexibility. It usually consists of multiple layers, including a central strength member, a buffer tube encasing the fibers, and an outer jacket. The cable design may incorporate additional elements like water blocking agents, ripcords for ease of installation, and armor for enhanced protection against physical stress.
Backshells and boots
These components protect the vulnerable areas of the cable where the fibers exit the cable jacket and enter the connector housing or the electronic module. Backshells and boots are designed to shield these areas from environmental hazards and to maintain strain relief, preventing stress on the delicate fiber and electronic connections.
Heat shields and insulators
To manage heat generated by the electronics, AOCs may include heat shields and thermal insulators. These components dissipate heat away from sensitive electronic components, ensuring stable operation and longevity.
Signal integrity components
To maintain high-speed data transmission without errors, AOCs may incorporate signal integrity components like equalization circuits or retimers. These components compensate for signal degradation caused by factors like cable length and electromagnetic interference.
Power supply
Active Optical Cables require a power supply to operate the electronic modules embedded within them. This may come in the form of a separate power cable or through the same cable that transmits data, depending on the design.
How to Maintain Active Optical Cables
Regular inspection
Visually inspect the cables for signs of damage such as cuts, kinks, or abrasions that could compromise the integrity of the optical fiber or electronic components.
Check for loose or damaged connectors, as these can lead to poor connectivity and signal loss.
Proper handling
Avoid bending the cable beyond its minimum bending radius, as this can cause microbending and signal attenuation.
Do not pull on the connector ends when moving or installing the cable; instead, handle the cable by its reinforced areas or cable jacket.
Cleaning connectors
Dust and dirt can accumulate on the connector endfaces, reducing the quality of the optical connection. Use appropriate cleaning tools like fiber optic brushes, swabs, or specialized solutions to clean the connectors gently.
Ensure that the cleaning tools are themselves clean and free of contaminants.
Avoiding exposure to harsh conditions
Store AOCs in a controlled environment away from extreme temperatures, humidity, and direct sunlight, as these can affect the cable performance and lifespan.
Keep cables away from sources of electromagnetic interference (EMI), which can disrupt the electronic modules within the cable.
Preventive measures against damage
Use Hoop, ties, or other cable management systems to organize and route cables neatly to avoid tension and pressure on the cable.
Protect cables in high-traffic areas with raised flooring or conduits to prevent accidental damage from foot traffic or equipment movement.
Periodic performance checks
Regularly test the cable for parameters such as insertion loss, return loss, and bandwidth to ensure they are within acceptable operating ranges.
Use specialized equipment like an optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR) for more thorough inspections.
Following manufacturer recommendations
Consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance schedules and procedures specific to the type of AOC you have.
Be aware of any warranty terms or recommended maintenance practices to avoid voiding the warranty.
Environmental considerations
If AOCs are deployed outdoors, ensure they are protected against environmental extremes with proper enclosures or conduit protection.
Monitor any environmental conditions that could impact the cable, such as rodent infestations or corrosion due to chemical exposure.
How to Choose Active Optical Cables
Data rate requirements
Determine the maximum data rate required for your system. AOCs support various rates, from 1 Gbps to 40 Gbps or higher. Choose a cable that matches or exceeds your system’s speed requirements.
Distance needs
Decide how far the cable will need to transmit data. AOCs are designed for specific distances, ranging from short (up to 10 meters) to very long (up to hundreds of meters). Select a cable with an appropriate maximum reach for your setup.
Fiber type
Determine whether single-mode or multi-mode fiber is needed. Single-mode fibers can transmit over longer distances with less signal attenuation, while multi-mode fibers are generally used for shorter distances.
Connector types
Choose the correct type of connector for your devices. Common types include LC, SC, ST, and MPO/MTP. Ensure the connector type is compatible with the port interfaces on both ends of the cable.
Cable construction
Consider the cable’s outer jacket material, diameter, and any additional features such as water blocking or armoring. Choose a construction that suits the environment where the cable will be used, including indoor, outdoor, and industrial settings.
Electronic module capabilities
Assess the built-in electronics of the AOC. Some cables may include advanced features like signal amplification, error correction, or retiming functions to enhance performance and reliability.
Power requirements
Check the power needs of the AOC. Some cables draw power through the same cable that carries data, while others require an external power supply. Ensure that your system can provide the necessary power.
Certifications and standards compliance
Verify that the AOC meets relevant industry standards such as IEEE, ANSI, or TIA, and holds any necessary certifications that apply to your application.
Brand and manufacturer reputation
Consider the reputation of the brand and manufacturer. Choose a reputable vendor known for quality products and reliable customer service.
Cost vs. Benefit analysis
Compare the cost of different AOCs with their benefits. While a higher price may indicate better quality or features, ensure that the investment provides value for money based on your specific requirements.
Compatibility with existing infrastructure
Make sure the chosen AOC is compatible with your existing network infrastructure, including switches, servers, and any other networking gear.
Warranty and support
Look for a vendor that offers a warranty and reliable technical support. This can provide peace of mind should issues arise with the cable after purchase.
How Active Optical Cables Work
Active Optical Cables (AOCs) are specialized fiber optic cables that incorporate active electronic components within the cable assembly. These components enhance the cable's performance by compensating for losses typically encountered in long fiber optic runs. The primary function of an AOC is to transmit high-speed data over extended distances with minimal signal degradation.
Here's a detailed explanation of how AOCs work:
Integrated electronics: AOCs have integrated transceivers at each end of the fiber optic cable. These transceivers convert electrical signals from connected devices into optical signals, which are then transmitted along the fiber. Upon reaching the other end, the process is reversed: the optical signals are converted back into electrical signals for the receiving device.
Signal amplification: The active components in an AOC can amplify the signal. As the signal travels through the fiber, it experiences attenuation due to the medium's properties and bends in the cable. Amplifiers in the transceiver electronics boost the signal strength to maintain integrity over the entire length of the cable.
Retiming function: To further reduce signal degradation, AOCs often feature retiming or regeneration capabilities. After the signal is amplified, it is also reclocked or reshaped to restore its timing characteristics. This helps to compensate for signal distortion caused by the time it takes for light to travel through the fiber and by the effects of dispersion.
Error correction: Some AOCs implement forward error correction (FEC) techniques. FEC adds extra information to the transmitted data that can be used at the receiver to correct errors introduced during transmission. This improves the reliability of the link and reduces the likelihood of retransmissions.
Reduced power consumption: AOCs are designed to operate with low power consumption, which is advantageous compared to traditional copper cables or passive optical cables that would require additional hardware to achieve similar results.
Compatibility with devices: AOCs must be compatible with the electrical interfaces of the devices they connect. For example, an AOC designed for connecting two devices with SFP+ (Small Form Factor Pluggable) ports will have transceivers at each end that fit into these ports and communicate with the devices' electronics.
Cable design: The physical design of an AOC includes high-quality optical fibers and connectors. The fibers are usually multimode or single-mode, depending on the distance and bandwidth requirements of the application. The cables are also engineered to handle the additional weight and size of the electronics without compromising flexibility.
Active Optical Cables work by integrating active electronics within the cable assembly to enhance the transmission of high-speed data over long distances. They use amplification, retiming, and error correction to maintain signal integrity, all while being designed to be compatible with standard device interfaces and to consume relatively low power.
Certifications
FAQ
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SFP-10G-DWDM-C60-40, C MUX and DEMUX 18CH 1U 2761