Cutting-Edge Cooling Tech Enhances AI Optical Connectors

Molex, a leading technology company, has introduced groundbreaking plug-and-play optical feedthrough modules featuring two-phase immersion cooling to address the critical issue of thermal management in AI data centers.

The innovative Molex VaporConnect Optical Feedthrough Modules utilize a cutting-edge cassette-based design that seamlessly attaches to immersion tanks. This design allows for the easy swapping of optical transceivers and network cabling infrastructure without the need to alter mechanical interfaces or disrupt the immersion tank architecture.

Commercially available reference designs for these revolutionary modules are set to hit the market in the first quarter of 2025, marking a significant advancement in data center technology.

One of the key highlights of these modules is the simplification of connections between optical transceivers within immersion tanks and external cabling infrastructure using fully upgradeable sealed modules. The VaporConnect system enables sealing and cabling to be efficiently managed within the module, facilitating connector upgrades without any impact on the immersion tank design or structure.

This innovative architecture also allows for the reuse of standard cabling infrastructure across multiple product generations, thereby reducing deployment time, costs, and complexity associated with system upgrades.

The modules offer a wide range of industry-standard and Molex optical connector form factors for both single- and multi-mode fiber solutions. Customers can mix and match connectors for system upgrades to newer or denser options, while customizable module footprints cater to specific space and application requirements.

Moreover, the design of the modules minimizes external patching and shuffle requirements by incorporating Molex FlexPlane optical circuitry technology. This integration enables complex optical shuffles and high-density fiber routing within the module, ensuring simpler installation and plug-and-play operation.

Each VaporConnect module comes equipped with a sealing gasket that undergoes rigorous industry-standard helium-leak testing to guarantee a reliable seal with the tank wall. This meticulous testing process ensures a seamless transition from the server line cards inside the tank to the external cabling infrastructure, with ongoing testing for compliance with industry-standard GR-1435-CORE.

Molex's commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in the customizable nature of the VaporConnect modules, with the number of fiber channels tailored to the specific requirements based on the connectors used. These modules can integrate up to 576 fibers, offering a variety of form factor options such as MPO, LC, and very small form factor (VSFF) choices like MMC, MDC, SN, and SN-MT.

As the leading manufacturer of Optical Feedthrough Modules for two-phase immersion cooling, Molex has already shipped over 350,000 optical channels, solidifying its position as an industry pioneer in immersion technology for AI data centers.

Trevor Smith, the general manager of Optical Connectivity at Molex, emphasized the company's commitment to innovation and addressing critical thermal management challenges in data centers. He highlighted how VaporConnect empowers customers to upgrade connectivity and scale cooling system designs effortlessly, aligning with the evolving needs of data center growth and efficiency.

For more information on Molex and its cutting-edge technology solutions, visit www.molex.com.