Next-Gen Networking: 200G AOCs VS DAC Cables
NEXT-GEN NETWORKING: 200G AOC VS DAC CABLES
In this blog, we'll explore the realm of 200G AOC and DAC cables, delving into their definitions, distinctions, and varied applications. By gaining insights into their distinct features, characteristics, and ideal applications, we can effectively leverage their potential to enhance connectivity - JTOPTICS.
A Comprehensive Overview and Insights: 200G AOC vs DAC Cables:
200G AOC: The 200G AOC (Active Optical Cable) represents a communication cable which uses an external power source to convert electrical signals to optical signals or vice versa. This cutting-edge technology incorporates optical transceivers at both ends for seamless photoelectric conversion and transmission, achieving an impressive transmission rate of 200Gb/s. The AOC consists of two transceivers and a fiber optic patch cable. The Active Optical Cable (AOC), provides substantial transmission distance, typically reaching up to 100 meters.
200G DAC: The 200G DAC (Direct Attach Copper) cables offer a budget-friendly substitute for AOC cables when it comes to transmitting data over short distances. These cables use copper conductors to convey electrical signals, negating the requirement for optical components. DACs incorporate a passive component and serve to link mobility access switches together when establishing a stack. They establish a direct electrical connection between corresponding cable ends, offering enough data rates for diverse applications and supporting higher data rates compared to a conventional copper interface, ranging from 4Gbps to 10Gbps per channel.
Decoding 200G AOC & DAC Cables: Similarities & Differences
1. Similarities:
Direct Link: Both 200G AOC and DAC cables establish an immediate connection between active equipment ports, such as switches, servers, and storage devices. The transmission modules, either Twinax copper for DAC or fiber for AOC, are pre-terminated onto the cable and cannot be detached. This facilitates straightforward plug-and-play installation, eliminating the necessity for supplementary cabling.2. Differences:
Ø Transmission Medium Distinctions: In the comparison of AOC and DAC cables, it's essential to recognize that their primary differentiation stems from the variance in transmission medium. To be specific, AOC cables are constructed from fiber optic material, aligning with the domain of fiber-optic communication, while DAC cables are fashioned from copper wire, placing them within the realm of electrical communication.
As AOC employs internal optical fiber transmission, it boasts an extended transmission range, ease of installation, and resilience to electromagnetic radiation. In contrast, DAC's transmission range is notably brief due to the inherent physical limitations of copper, making it susceptible to electromagnetic interference. It's important to note that AOC incorporates a laser, contributing to its higher cost. This is attributed to the elevated price of fiber optic material and the substantial expense associated with lasers. Consequently, the price of AOC is considerably greater than that of DAC.
Physical Configuration (Form Factor): 200G AOC and DAC cables come in two primary physical configurations, namely QSFP56 and QSFP-DD.
QSFP56: Quad Small Form Factor Pluggable 56 Introduced in 2019, the QSFP56 standard marks a noteworthy advancement in data transfer speeds when contrasted with its forerunner, the QSFP28, reaching a maximum speed of 200 Gbps. This enhanced performance is achieved through parallel fibers and 8 x 25G wavelengths, or by leveraging PAM4 modulation and an internal multiplexer to transmit 50G over 4 wavelengths. QSFP56 transceivers come in various configurations, utilizing OM4 for distances up to 100m &OS2 for distances of up to 10km. Supported connectors include LC or MPO-12.
QSFP-DD: Quad Small Form Factor Pluggable
Double Density Standards supports two data rate
configurations. Employing NRZ modulation, it achieves data rates of up to 25G x
8 channels, enabling 200G network transmission. Alternatively, with PAM4
modulation, data rates can reach 50G x 4 channels, facilitating 400G network
transmission for high-performance computing data centers and cloud networks.
While QSFP-DD modules can support 400Gbps, the QSFP56 is capped at 200Gbps,
making the QSFP56 form factor more prevalent for 200G optical transceivers and
AOC/DAC cables.
Application of 200G AOC & DAC Cables:
Given the information provided, it is apparent that the 200G
DAC cable is optimal for economical, energy-efficient applications over short
distances. This cable type is frequently employed within the same or adjacent
racks in data centers. Conversely, the 200G AOC cable is designed for extended
transmission distances, typically spanning from 1 meter to 70 meters. Although
it offers greater reach, it is accompanied by a higher cost and increased power
consumption. Consequently, the AOC cable is well-suited for situations that
demand convenient wiring or cover substantial transmission distances, often
found in high-density environments like data centers and High-Performance
Computing (HPC) setups.
Both 200G DAC and AOC cables are versatile and can facilitate
network data migration in various configurations, including 200G to 200G, 200G
to 2x100G, 200G to 4x50G, and 200G to 8x25G.
Overall Conclusion:
Through an examination of the capabilities, transceiver form
factors, and applications of 200G AOC and DAC Cables, we can adeptly utilize
the distinctions to choose appropriate products. Whether intended for data
centers, high-performance computing, telecommunications, or cloud computing,
JTOPTICS provides versatile connectivity solutions designed to meet client’s specific
requirements or needs.
Get In Touch With Us:
For more information visit our website: JTOPTICS I Optical Transceivers l MPO l DAC l AOC Cables
If you have any requirements or queries feel free to share via mail: info@jtoptics.com or via call:
+91-7304261910
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