Anritsu upgrades MT1040A for data centre evaluation
Updates to the Network Master Pro 1040A mean that it now supports tests of 400GBASE-ZR standard optical modules for inexpensive data centre interconnects (DCI). Anritsu has also developed the optional Ethernet 4x100G N Port BERT (bit error rate test) and Ethernet 2x200G N Port BERT M1040A software for breakout-type communications quality tests to reduce DCI test workloads.
These upgraded functions which support tests for transitioning to 400GBASE-ZR circuits as well as introduction of breakout-type interfaces will help cut data centre construction and expansion costs, said the company.
Data centres are growing rapidly due to the spread of 5G services, teleworking and online teaching. Limits on available space, power supply capacity and air conditioning can cause problems in scaling up the capacity of established medium-scale data centres observed Anritsu, which can make increasing the number of distributed medium data centres more efficient than building new hyperscale ones.
Wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) circuits provided from network operators are used widely for DCI but are expensive. The market trend towards opening and disaggregation of WDM systems is driving demand for 400GBASE-ZR transceivers, which is helping cut circuit costs. Although high speed DCIs link separate data centres, low speed distribution port connections occupy a large amount of space. Using breakout-type interfaces can save valuable space. For example, the 400GBASE-XDR4 standard uses only one 400G port, in place of four 100G ports. As well as a single cable in place of four 100G cables, less power is used because the number of laser elements is reduced from four communications wavelengths used by the four 100G links, to one laser used by the 400G link. To introduce these interfaces, however requires transceiver and equipment acceptance tests.
Anritsu has provided communications test and measurement solutions for 125 years. It has helped customers develop wireless, optical, microwave/RF and digital solutions for R&D, manufacturing, installation and maintenance applications, as well as multi-dimensional service assurance for network monitoring and optimisation.
Anritsu also provides precision microwave/RF components, optical devices, and high-speed electrical devices for communication products and systems. The company develops advanced solutions for 5G, M2M, IoT, as well as other emerging and legacy wireline and wireless communication markets.
