EKINOPS S.A. announces the availability of its new PM_400FR05-C2A pluggable module for the Ekinops360 WDM optical transport system. This new line card is the first coherent module from Ekinops based on 400G pluggable line interfaces, offering lower cost, lower power coherent solutions than what is offered by high-performance embedded optics. Since their debut in 2021, pluggable 400G transceivers have been quickly adapted for use in communications networks.

Though initially designed for short reach data center connectivity, newer versions with higher optical launch powers are now being deployed in broader applications including metro and regional service provider transport networks. According to market research firm Cignal AI, these transceivers will represent more than 20% of all 100G+ telecom bandwidth deployed in 2022, growing to 30% by 2024. The PM_400FR05-C2A provides multiple client options capable of supporting either 100GbE or OTU4 as well as 400GbE connectivity.

The line interface is programmable from 100G to 400G. As a standards-based solution, the PM_400FR05-C2A is fully interoperable with other third-party compliant interfaces making it easy and inexpensive for service providers to interconnect switch/router ports. While most pluggable 400G optics are limited to point-to-point connectivity, the PM_400FR05-C2A is also deployable on meshed optical networks with multi-point connectivity, a key differentiator that significantly expands the scope of potential applications.

Another differentiator is the availability of an optional Ekinops proprietary enhanced performance mode that extends the reach of the line output more than 20% compared to standardized modes of performance. Advanced transmission technology developed by Ekinops provides a cleaner transmission signal that can eliminate the need for additional amplifiers and regeneration points to further lower overall network cost. The PM_400FR05-C2A is already attracting customer interest.

It is currently in lab trials with general availability beginning in the first quarter of 2023.