Interface options for 100 GbE from a physical layer perspective

摘要

Due to the tenfold capacity increase of Ethernet from one generation to the next, 100 Gbps will be the straight forward next step after 10 Gbps. Demand can be predicted for the following years based on increasing internet data traffic and the lack of efficient packet based link aggregation mechanisms in the Ethernet protocol. Solutions have to be found for short haul intra-office and long haul inter-office interconnections of large routers. This contribution focuses on options for physical layer interfaces. Optical component aspects are discussed as well as transmission aspects. The selection of a suitable modulation format in combination with equalizer technologies opens a path towards robust transmission systems for this ultra-high datarate.