The SC25 conference highlighted the growing adoption of co-packaged optical (CPO) switching technology among data center operators amidst the AI boom. Nvidia introduced its Quantum-X Photonics CPO switches, set to be integrated by firms like Lambda and CoreWeave and at the Texas Advanced Computing Center (TACC). Despite competition from Broadcom’s CPO solutions, the transition to CPO is driven by the need for higher port speeds—up to 800 Gbps, potentially reaching 1.6 Tbps.
CPO technology consolidates optical components with switch ASICs, reducing reliance on energy-intensive pluggable transceivers. Notably, Nvidia claims its CPO switches are 3.5 times more energy-efficient, while Broadcom suggests a 65% power reduction. Early testing indicates reliable performance, with Meta reporting one million hours of uninterrupted operation on Broadcom’s CPO switches. Both Nvidia and Broadcom are advancing CPO technology toward more extensive applications, aiming for enhanced efficiency and resilience to meet the escalating demands of AI infrastructure.
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