Scaling AI Networks with Flex Circuits and Integrated Photonic Fabrics

Network topologies used in state-of-the-art AI/ML clusters and data center networks rely on CLOS topologies which require complex interconnection patterns among switches. Those interconnections are challenging to deploy and maintain as the size of the network increases. Optical transceivers and switches with breakout capabilities have been developed and standardized in Ethernet 802.3 working groups, from speeds as low as 40G to 400G or, more recently, 800G, offer efficient means to deploy this type of network fabric. In this webinar hosted by the Optical Communications Technical Group, Jose Castro from Panduit will review methods and modules to simplify the deployment, maintenance, and scaling of those networks, based on fl flex circuits or passive photonic integrated circuits (3D waveguides).

Subject Matter Level: Intermediate - Assumes basic knowledge of the topic

What You Will Learn:
• Optical Networks for large data centers and AI clusters
• Integrated Photonics

Who Should Attend:
• Industry members interested in efficient implementation of data center networks and the potential use of passive integrated optics for network deployment

About the Presenter: Jose Castro from Panduit

Dr. Jose Castro is currently the Manager of the Fiber Research Group and a Distinguished Engineer at Panduit. He received his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Arizona, Tucson, in 2006. Dr.Castro was the editor for the Fibre Channel T11.2 Physical Interfaces standard for 64G transmission and received the Technical Excellence Award from the International Committee for Information Technology Standards in 2019. Dr. Castro has authored over 70 technical articles and international conference papers in the areas of optical fiber, optical communication, integrated optics, imaging systems, and LAN copper cables. He has made numerous contributions to TIA, IEEE, and Fibre Channel standards, as well as to the Consortium of Onboard Optics, in topics related to fiber, link models, and lasers for optical communication.