Optical switches for AI and HPC networks

FS has recently unveiled its DCS-W Series Optical Circuit Switches (OCS), specifically designed to cater to the advanced connectivity demands of AI, HPC, and machine learning clusters. These optical switches are equipped with a fully non-blocking all-optical switch architecture and incorporate a user-friendly Web GUI management system. This innovative design allows for intelligent and programmable control over intricate networks, going beyond traditional switching to create intelligent automated environments.

Unlike traditional OEO (optical-electrical-optical) solutions, the DCS-W optical switches offer rate- and protocol-transparent transmission, eliminating the need for signal conversion. This results in ultra-low latency, high energy efficiency, and improved scalability. Available in matrix configurations of 8×8, 16×16, and 32×32, these switches are well-suited for various applications, ranging from laboratory setups to large-scale AI training clusters, GPU interconnects, and demanding HPC workloads.

The non-blocking optical architecture of these switches ensures congestion-free, any-to-any port connections, facilitating seamless traffic scheduling even in dynamic network topologies. With compatibility across major protocols such as Ethernet, OTN, SDH, and Fibre Channel, these switches support data rates from 1G up to a future-ready 1.6T, ensuring scalability without the need for costly upgrades.

Noteworthy features of the DCS-W Series include built-in Optical Power Detection (OPD) for real-time signal monitoring and quick issue identification, as well as a browser-based Web GUI for easy management and diagnostics. FS has outlined plans to further expand the product line by introducing multimode and customized optical switch options to meet the evolving needs of networks.

By introducing the DCS-W Series Optical Circuit Switches, FS is addressing the growing demand for advanced connectivity solutions in the fields of AI, HPC, and machine learning. The integration of a user-friendly Web GUI management system and a non-blocking all-optical switch architecture sets these switches apart from conventional solutions, enabling intelligent and programmable control over complex networks. With features like rate- and protocol-transparent transmission and support for various protocols, these switches offer enhanced scalability and efficiency for a wide range of applications.