Zarlink Semiconductor has introduced a QSFP high-density, quad-channel, front-panel pluggable optical transceiver for InfiniBand architectures. Zarlink’s 4x2.5 Gbps (IB SDR) QSFP module is now available for sampling. By combining four ultra-high capacity, independent fiber transmit and receive channels into one integrated module, The product provides InfiniBand equipment manufacturers with edge and board density savings of greater than 60% while slashing power consumption to 250mW per transceiver channel. The QSFP module also integrates digital diagnostic monitoring. Zarlink is developing a complete QSFP product family that will extend these performance and design benefits to other applications, such as the Gigabit Ethernet and storage markets.

The QSFP MSA (multi sourcing agreement) support Zarlink’s QSFP module follows the mechanical form-factor, electrical pin-out and diagnostic management interface specifications outlined in the QSFP MSA rev0.9x. Zarlink is now sampling 4x2.5 Gbps and 4x5 Gbps InfiniBand QSFPs, supported by evaluation boards and a graphical user diagnostic interface. Pre-production parts will be available in early 2007, with full production parts released by mid-2007. Zarlink’s complete range of QSFP modules is planned for production over the next 12 months.