Coherent Corp. introduced its new 2x400G-FR4 Lite optical transceiver, a silicon photonics-based solution designed for high-volume deployments in AI-optimized data centers and high-speed Ethernet networks. The new module delivers up to 500 meters of reach while significantly lowering power consumption, offering a fiber-efficient, wavelength-multiplexed alternative to conventional DR8 solutions. Positioned as a complement to Coherent’s existing 800G-DR8 transceiver, the 2x400G-FR4 Lite is optimized for AI and machine learning workloads, where high-density and energy efficiency are increasingly critical.
Leveraging a silicon photonics integrated circuit (PIC), the transceiver integrates CW lasers, photodetectors, and passive optical components into a streamlined design that reduces the overall component count and simplifies manufacturing. The design also eliminates the need for thermoelectric coolers, further lowering power usage. Coherent is targeting Ethernet-based front-end networks with this release, addressing growing demand for optical interconnects capable of handling the scale and complexity of AI-driven compute clusters and modern cloud architectures.
Coherent’s broader datacom portfolio spans technologies including VCSELs, EMLs, DMLs, and silicon photonics, giving the company flexibility to match the right solution to specific customer and application needs. Samples of the 2x400G-FR4 Lite are available now, with general availability set for April 1, 2025. Coherent will showcase the product at OFC 2025 in San Francisco.
• Coherent launches 2x400G-FR4 Lite optical transceiver, targeting AI data centers and Ethernet networks.
• Silicon photonics-based module with 500m reach and reduced power consumption.
• Complements Coherent’s 800G-DR8 transceiver with a wavelength-multiplexed, fiber-efficient design.
• Integrated silicon photonics PIC eliminates thermoelectric coolers and simplifies production.
• Samples available now; general availability set for April 1, 2025, debuting at OFC 2025.
“The 2x400G-FR4 Lite is built with silicon photonics, reinforcing our commitment to selecting the best technology for each application,” said Dr. Lee Xu, Executive Vice President, Datacom Transceivers.
