Price list for low-noise tunable optical modules for data center interconnects

Low-noise, low-power active optical modules for data center interconnects typically range from $200–$1,500 per module depending on speed, reach, and form factor, with LPO modules offering the lowest power consumption at 3–5W per 400G/800G module.

Overview of Low-Power Active Optical Modules

Linear Pluggable Optics (LPO) are designed for energy-efficient, high-speed interconnects in hyperscale and AI/ML data centers. LPO modules eliminate onboard DSPs, relying on switch ASICs for signal processing, which reduces power consumption by up to 50% compared to traditional DSP-based optics. Typical power draw for 400G/800G LPO modules is 3–5W, compared to 8–12W for conventional DSP optics, making them ideal for dense rack-to-rack or pod-to-pod interconnects within the same facility (VitexTech) . Cisco Coherent Pluggable Optics provide low-noise, long-reach connectivity for data center interconnects over distances from 40 km to over 1,000 km. These modules integrate silicon photonics and low-power DSP ASICs to reduce energy use, cooling, and footprint by over 80%, while supporting 400G signals in QSFP-DD form factors (Cisco) . Standard Active Optical Modules (AOC) and optical transceivers (SFP28, QSFP28, QSFP-DD, OSFP) are available for short- to medium-range links (1–30 m for AOCs, 100 m to multi-km for fiber-based modules). Prices vary by speed and reach:

• 100G QSFP28 AOC: ~$200–$400 per module
• 400G QSFP-DD LPO: ~$800–$1,200 per module
• 400G coherent pluggable optics: ~$1,200–$1,500 per module for long-reach DCI applications (Wolontek, NodeOptic) .

Key Considerations

• Form Factor: QSFP-DD, OSFP, SFP28, and OSFP modules are widely supported; ensure switch compatibility.
• Power Efficiency: LPO modules are optimal for high-density racks and AI clusters due to lower heat output and energy use.
• Reach: Use LPO for intra-data center links (up to 30 m), standard optical modules for medium distances, and coherent optics for inter-data center links (40 km–1,000 km).
• Cost Optimization: Minimize module count where topology allows; reserve higher-cost coherent optics for links requiring long reach or carrier-grade performance.

Vendor Options

• VitexTech: LPO modules for 400G/800G, OSFP/QSFP-DD, 3–5W power, optimized for AI/ML clusters .
• Cisco: Coherent pluggable optics for 400G DCI, low-power, long-reach, QSFP-DD .
• NodeOptic: SFP/SFP28/QSFP28/QSFP-DD modules, single-mode/multi-mode, AOC/DAC options, lab-tested for major switch brands .
• Infraeo: Low-power LPO modules with 10% lower power than competitors, flexible connectivity, short- to medium-reach high-speed links . For budget planning, expect per-module costs to scale with speed, reach, and technology: short-reach 100G AOCs are cheapest, 400G LPO modules are mid-range, and long-reach coherent optics are the most expensive. Power consumption and cooling requirements should be factored into total cost of ownership for dense deployments.