OIF extends list of 100G Implementation Agreements

Members of the Optical Internetworking Forum (OIF) have extended the list of Implementation Agreements (IAs) targeted at 100-Gbps applications by three. They also approved an IA for a medium-reach electrical interface.

The OIF has taken the lead in creating an ecosystem for 100-Gbps optical transmission based on coherent detection beginning with the launch of its long-distance 100G specification project in 2008 (see “OIF to tackle 100G long-haul DWDM”) and continuing with a series of IAs, including one for the first 100G coherent optical transponders (see “OIF releases specs for MSA-100GLH 100G modules, control plane logging and auditing”). The new IAs cover both modules and components.

The new 100G Long-Haul DWDM Transmission Module IA outlines the second generation of the OIF’s 100G module. While it continues to use 100G PM-QPSK as the modulation format, the specification outlines a module size of 4x5 inches, 40% smaller than the OIF’s first MSA. In addition to smaller size, the new specifications are expected to result in lower power consumption.

The other two new 100G IAs focus on components for such modules. The Integrated Polarization Multiplexed Quadrature Modulated Transmitters IA covers optical transmitters operating at up to 32 GBd per channel for applications such as 100G PM-QPSK DWDM transmission. The resulting transmitter will be small enough to fit into the Gen 2 LH DWDM Transmission Module described in the IA just described.

The Intradyne Coherent Receivers IA also applies to 100G PM-QPSK applications with nominal rates up to 32 GBd. Again, the IA calls for a smaller receiver to fit within the smaller 4x5 module as well as future CFP modules.

“100G DWDM represents a significant development expense for component and system suppliers,” said Nathan Tracy of TE Connectivity and the OIF technical committee chair via an OIF press release. “The original implementation agreements for 100G have been refreshed to support second-generation smaller form factor modules and the expectation for future pluggable modules. Smaller form factor modules enable higher density, lower power equipment.”

Meanwhile, the OIF also has announced an IA that extends its previous work with the CEI electrical interface to accommodate “medium reach” applications, which the OIF defines as capable of driving up to 500 mm of PCB and up to one connector. The CEI-28G-MR IA defines the characteristics required to communicate between a CEI-28G-MR transmitter and a CEI-28G-MR receiver. The new clause describes the requirements for the CEI-28G-MR medium-reach high-speed electrical interface between nominal baud rates of 19.90 Gsym/s and 28.1 Gsym/s using NRZ coding.

For more information on optical transceivers and suppliers, visit the Lightwave Buyer’s Guide.