POWER
Every watt counts A
s the digital landscape continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, the demand for robust and energy-efficient network infrastructures has never been greater. Global data consumption over telecom networks will nearly triple from 3.4 petabytes (PB) in 2022 to 9.7 million PB in 2027, according to a report from PWC. In this scenario, optimising energy consumption in telecom networks becomes crucial. Here, Łukasz Bogdanik, development manager at telecommunication networks specialist Salumanus, delves into the energy efficiency advancements of QSFP-DD coherent modules. According to GSMA research, the telecom industry accounts for about two to three percent of total power consumption worldwide. Despite new technologies like 5G connectivity being 90 per cent more energy efficient than their predecessor, their development is still likely to cause a dramatic energy increase due to network densification. Optical modules are also shifting to keep up with energy efficiency requirements,
34 MAY 2024 | ELECTRONICS FOR ENGINEERS
becoming smaller, more compact, and less power hungry.
Miniaturisation and design One prominent trend shaping the landscape of network infrastructures is the miniaturisation of optical modules. Network operators have transitioned from a CFP (C form-factor pluggable) interface boasting a power consumption of 32 W and a transmission speed of 100G to a more advanced QSFP-DD interface with a reduced power consumption of 15 W and an enhanced transmission speed of 400G. This represents a twofold reduction in power consumption alongside a fourfold increase in throughput. Currently, the telecom community has achieved 400G solutions that demand less than 8 W.
The evolution in power efficiency across successive generations of optical modules is not solely attributed to modifications in interface specifications dictated by MSA standards. It also stems from innovative solutions implemented in modules sharing the
Navigating energy challenges in telecoms network infrastructure
same interface. Revolutionary semiconductor technologies, such as indium phosphide (InP) or silicon photonics (SiP), enable a profound integration of individual components within the module. In the past, lasers, amplifiers, modulators, drivers, and CDR systems existed as separate entities.
Leveraging these new semiconductor materials and processes, many of these functionalities are now seamlessly integrated into a singular, multifunctional system constructed on a unified semiconductor structure. This integration not only significantly enhances the transmission parameters of these systems, but also reduces power consumption compared to systems comprising of discrete elements. GBC Photonics offers a diverse portfolio encompassing multi-generation products based on various interfaces. Within each module type, we introduce new, more economical versions, showcasing our commitment to advancing photonics technology.
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