Towards standardization of compact data center switches

Abstract

Data Centers, the essential infrastructure for the increasing amount of cloud applications, are required to expand in number of devices even further. However, the scaling is limited by both space and power constraints. It is therefore essential to shrink the size and power consumption of the devices. This works explores how On-Board Optics provides a solution for data center switches. We experimentally demonstrate a proof-of-concept data center switch with integrated On-Board Optics modules, power consumption below 150W and measuring only 0.25U. We further discuss the standards required to fully exploit this technology, and the future of On-Board Optics.