TeraSignal Introduces Photonics IC to Boost AI Bandwidth in Data Centers

TeraSignal, a leading photonics specialist, has unveiled a groundbreaking intelligent re-driver device designed to enhance AI bandwidth scaling in data centers.

The TS8401/02 intelligent 400G (4x100G) PAM4 modulator driver is being hailed as the industry's first CMOS IC featuring digital link training and link monitoring specifically tailored for 800G linear pluggable optical (LPO) modules.

"TeraSignal's innovative CMOS solution for LPO modules represents a significant advancement in high-speed interconnect technology, seamlessly blending low latency and power efficiency with unparalleled link performance measurement capabilities, diagnostics, and rapid time-to-market," stated Dr. Armond Hairapetian, the founder and CEO of TeraSignal. "Our commitment lies in delivering IRD solutions that outperform traditional fiber and copper interconnects. By embedding intelligence within the re-driver, we have ushered in a new era of AI-centric CMOS devices that offer DSP-like functionalities with substantially reduced power consumption and minimal latency, thereby establishing a new benchmark for high-speed interconnects."

The primary objective of this cutting-edge device is to overcome the constraints associated with conventional LPO modules, which, unlike DSP-based re-timers, have lacked the essential features for automatic adaptation, digital link monitoring, and link training, thereby posing challenges in terms of integration, interoperability, and efficient deployment.

By harnessing the capabilities of the existing MCU within the LPO module, the TS8401/02 automates critical adjustments and introduces advanced link diagnostics and accountability, effectively transforming LPO modules into adaptive link optimization systems.