Keysight extends 1.6T interconnect validation to copper and optics

Keysight Technologies has expanded its 1.6T Ethernet interconnect validation portfolio, targeting the growing complexity of AI and high-performance computing (HPC) networks. The update brings additional support for passive copper and low-power optical technologies used in next-generation data centre interconnects.

For eeNews Europe readers, the announcement highlights how validation tools are evolving alongside 224G lane speeds and 1.6T architectures, where signal integrity, power efficiency and reliability are becoming system-level challenges rather than component-level concerns.

Addressing scaling challenges in AI networks

As AI workloads scale, interconnect technologies such as DAC, ACC, and low-power optics must balance higher bandwidth with tighter power and cost constraints. At the same time, operators expect error-free performance over long operating periods in increasingly dense network environments.

Keysight’s update builds on its Interconnect and Network Performance Tester 1600GE and AresONE 1600GE platforms. These systems are designed to characterise error performance under realistic conditions, potentially helping network designers reduce downtime risks in large-scale AI deployments.

The company also points to broader industry pressures, including rising data centre energy demand, as a driver for more efficient interconnect solutions. Lower-power approaches such as low-power optics and short-reach copper links are therefore becoming increasingly relevant in system design.

Broader validation across copper and optical links

The expanded validation capability now covers a wider set of 224G interconnect types, including coherent optics, retimed optical transceivers, and several copper-based options. These span use cases from short intra-rack connections to longer-reach data centre interconnect links.

Particular attention is given to low-power optics and linear receive optics, which are positioned for high-density switching environments where power budgets are constrained. Passive and active copper cables remain relevant for short distances, offering lower cost and power consumption.

The validation process itself is becoming more complex. New DSPs, retimers, and linear amplifiers enable higher speeds and longer reach, but require careful tuning and repeated testing cycles at the system level.

Keysight emphasises testing in fully assembled systems connected to GPUs, NICs, and switches, rather than isolated component validation. This approach may help engineers better understand real-world behaviour and make more informed design trade-offs.