Key Findings
Nvidia, Cisco, TE Connectivity, and Amphenol are backing a new pluggable optics form factor to address the increasing data movement demands of AI networks. While Nvidia is simultaneously promoting co-packaged optics (CPO), this new pluggable standard provides a modular alternative that allows operators to mix vendors and replace failed modules without replacing the entire switch.
Technical Details
The partnership leverages specific technological strengths from each member:
- Cisco: Expanding its lineup with 1.6T OSFP modules and 800G Linear Pluggable Optics (LPO). Cisco’s 800G LPO solutions reduce power consumption by approximately 50% for optical modules and around 30% for the overall switch by removing certain signal-processing electronics. Additionally, Cisco’s Silicon One G300 switching silicon, unveiled February 10, 2026, can switch data at 102.4 Tbps.
- TE Connectivity and Amphenol: Providing high-density connectors and interconnect hardware for both linear pluggable and co-packaged architectures.
- Nvidia: Developing CPO via Spectrum-X Photonics and Quantum-X Photonics switches. CPO reduces the required number of lasers by four times and improves power efficiency by 3.5 times and signal integrity by 63 times compared to traditional pluggables. CPO also reduces electrical signal loss from roughly 22 dB to roughly 4 dB.
Background and Context
Nvidia announced its CPO-based switches on March 18, 2025. Quantum-X Photonics switches (up to 115 Tb/s) are expected between late 2025 and early 2026, while Spectrum-X Photonics (up to 409.6 Tb/s) is expected in the second half of 2026. However, pluggables remain essential for flexibility and easier maintenance compared to the complex repair process required for CPO optical engines.
Significance and Outlook
The dual-track strategy allows Nvidia to capture market share regardless of whether a customer chooses CPO or pluggable architectures for specific network layers. For Cisco, a common pluggable format protects its business against fully integrated designs. With 800G+ transceiver shipments expected to top 24 million units in 2025, the power savings offered by LPO provide significant advantages for data center power budgets.
Source: https://cryptobriefing.com/nvidia-cisco-pluggable-optics-ai-data-centers/
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