Ethernet exchange NDIX deploys Smartoptics gear for 100G data center interconnect

Dec. 20, 2022

NDIX’s network is about the size and scope to a Tier 2 service provider, with over 4,000 ports connected at more than 100 data centers, according to Smartoptics.

Stephen Hardy

Smartoptics says it will supply elements of its DCP-M family of open line systems to Dutch Ethernet exchange services provider NDIX. The exchange will upgrade its data center interconnect links to 100G, with a pathway to 400G.

NDIX’s network is about the size and scope to a Tier 2 service provider, with over 4,000 ports connected at more than 100 data centers, according to Smartoptics. NDIX enables more than 100 partners to reach customers large and small, including large government institutions throughout the Netherlands as well as in Germany.

According to Smartoptics CEO Magnus Grenfeldt, the DCP-M open line systems portfolio will run multiple bit rates in parallel with low latency and high density while supporting disaggregated networking. Operators can upgrade the systems by replacing the optics.

“We carefully analyzed several potential solutions and Smartoptics stood out from the competition for its ease of use,” commented Thomas van de Lagemaat, manager, NOC/Operations at NDIX. “In theory, it sounded very simple, almost too good to be true. When we actually tested one of these open line systems, we were blown away that it really was as easy in practice. Smartoptics keeps its promises, offering a true plug-and-play experience that helps us grow our network at scale. We appreciate their honesty and reliability as a partner and look forward to continuing future collaboration.”

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About the Author

Stephen Hardy | Editorial Director and Associate Publisher, Lightwave

Stephen Hardy is editorial director and associate publisher of Lightwave and Broadband Technology Report, part of the Lighting & Technology Group at Endeavor Business Media. Stephen is responsible for establishing and executing editorial strategy across the both brands’ websites, email newsletters, events, and other information products. He has covered the fiber-optics space for more than 20 years, and communications and technology for more than 35 years. During his tenure, Lightwave has received awards from Folio: and the American Society of Business Press Editors (ASBPE) for editorial excellence. Prior to joining Lightwave in 1997, Stephen worked for Telecommunications magazine and the Journal of Electronic Defense.

Stephen has moderated panels at numerous events, including the Optica Executive Forum, ECOC, and SCTE Cable-Tec Expo. He also is program director for the Lightwave Innovation Reviews and the Diamond Technology Reviews.

He has written numerous articles in all aspects of optical communications and fiber-optic networks, including fiber to the home (FTTH), PON, optical components, DWDM, fiber cables, packet optical transport, optical transceivers, lasers, fiber optic testing, and more.

You can connect with Stephen on LinkedIn as well as Twitter.