Keysight and Coherent Showcase Breakthrough 200G Multimode VCSEL Technology at OFC 2025: Revolutionizing Data Transfer and Network Efficiency
In a groundbreaking collaboration, Keysight Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: KEYS) and Coherent Corp. are set to unveil their revolutionary 200G multimode vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) technology at the Optical Fiber Communication Conference (OFC 2025) in San Francisco, California. This cutting-edge innovation promises to transform data transfer and network efficiency, addressing the skyrocketing demand for higher bandwidth in data centers while reducing costs and power consumption.
Doubling Bandwidth with 200G Multimode VCSELs
The new 200G per lane VCSEL technology doubles the data throughput of current multimode interconnects, offering an unprecedented 200 Gbps/lane. This leap in performance is critical as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) applications continue to drive exponential growth in data center traffic. With AI/ML deployment intensifying, the need for faster, more efficient short-reach interconnects has become a top priority for data center operators.
Traditional single-mode transmission solutions, while effective, come with significant drawbacks—higher manufacturing costs, increased power consumption, and greater capital expenditure (Capex). In contrast, multimode VCSELs provide a more cost-effective and energy-efficient alternative, making them ideal for short-reach data links that dominate AI clusters and GPU-to-GPU communications.
Key Benefits of 200G Multimode VCSEL Technology
- Increased Bandwidth: The 200G multimode VCSEL technology offers double the data throughput of existing multimode interconnects, enabling data centers to meet the growing demands of AI/ML workloads.
- Power Efficiency: Compared to single-mode alternatives, multimode VCSELs consume significantly less power per bit, reducing operational expenses (Opex) and helping large-scale data centers minimize their environmental impact.
- Cost Efficiency: Multimode VCSELs are less expensive to manufacture than single-mode technologies, lowering the initial capital outlay for short-reach data links. This makes them a practical choice for scaling AI infrastructure without breaking the bank.
- Compatible Network Architecture: AI pods and clusters require numerous high-speed, short-reach interconnects to facilitate seamless data sharing among GPUs. The 200G multimode VCSEL’s strengths align perfectly with these requirements, ensuring optimal performance in AI-driven environments.
Demonstrating Feasibility and Capability
At OFC 2025, Keysight and Coherent will showcase their 200G multimode technology demonstration, highlighting the feasibility and capabilities of this transformative solution. The demo features:
- Keysight’s Wideband Multimode Sampling Oscilloscope: A state-of-the-art tool designed to measure optical signals with precision.
- Keysight’s M8199B 256 GSa/s Arbitrary Waveform Generator (AWG): Driving a 106.25 GBaud PAM4 electrical signal into Coherent’s 200G VCSEL.
- Coherent’s 200G Multimode VCSEL: Producing a PAM4 optical signal output, which is then measured using Keysight’s oscilloscope to display the eye diagram.
This live demonstration underscores the potential of Coherent’s VCSEL technology and Keysight’s ability to characterize, tune, and validate it effectively.
Industry Leaders Driving Innovation
The collaboration between Keysight and Coherent represents a significant milestone in advancing optical communications. “Keysight has been a trusted partner and leader in test instrumentation technology,” said Lee Xu, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Datacom Business Unit at Coherent. “Their advanced test solutions, such as the M8199B Arbitrary Waveform Generator, have been instrumental in validating our latest transceiver designs. We look forward to continuing this partnership as we push the boundaries of optical communications with products based on 200G VCSEL, silicon photonics, and Electro-Absorption Modulated Laser (EML).”
Dr. Joachim Peerlings, Vice President and General Manager of Keysight’s Network and Data Center Solutions Group, added, “We are thrilled with the progress the industry is making in bringing 200G multimode technology to market. Our close collaboration with Coherent has enabled another milestone in high-speed connectivity. The industry will benefit from a more efficient and cost-effective technology to address their business-critical AI/ML infrastructure deployment in the data center.”
Why This Matters for Data Centers
As AI/ML adoption continues to surge, data centers face mounting pressure to deliver faster, more reliable, and cost-effective interconnect solutions. The cost of optical interconnects currently accounts for a growing portion of data center Capex, while their power consumption contributes significantly to Opex. By adopting 200G multimode VCSEL technology, data centers can achieve:
- Higher Data Throughput: Supporting the massive data transfer requirements of AI/ML applications.
- Reduced Power Consumption: Lowering operational costs and environmental impact.
- Lower Deployment Costs: Offering a cost-effective alternative to single-mode solutions.
- Scalability: Enabling the expansion of AI clusters and GPU-based architectures without compromising performance.
Join the Conversation at OFC 2025
Industry professionals and tech enthusiasts are invited to visit Keysight Booth #1301 at OFC 2025, taking place from April 1–3 in San Francisco, California. Attendees will have the opportunity to witness live demonstrations of coherent optical innovations and learn how 200G multimode VCSEL technology is shaping the future of data transfer and network efficiency.
About Keysight Technologies
Keysight Technologies is a global leader in advanced design and validation solutions, empowering enterprises to accelerate innovation and optimize network performance. With expertise spanning wireless communications, 5G, AI, and cloud computing, Keysight delivers cutting-edge tools to meet the evolving needs of modern data centers.
About Coherent Corp.
Coherent Corp. is a pioneer in photonics and optical technologies, providing innovative solutions for datacom, telecom, and industrial applications. Their focus on high-speed interconnects and energy-efficient technologies positions them at the forefront of the optical communications revolution.
