The pluggable CFP transceivers will support the ultra-high bandwidth needs of data communications and telecommunication networks that form the backbone of the internet.

According to industry analysts, the IP traffic is anticipated to nearly double every two years through 2012, potentially resulting in core network bandwidth shortages. The IP traffic volume will be driven by the high-quality video services such as VOD and IPTV and also the availability of high-speed and high-capacity access networks like FTTx and WiFi. To prevent these shortages, carriers and service providers are planning the installment of new high-speed network protocols. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) is currently working on the standardization of 40Gb/s and 100Gb/s Ethernet under its P802.3ba Task Force. Additionally to the existing 40Gb/s telecom standards, both the OIF and the ITU-T are working on standardizing SDH/OTN telecom interfaces for the long-haul transmission of 100Gb Ethernet.

The CFP MSA is defining the specifications needed to support multiple applications utilizing the same form factor. These applications incorporate a variety of protocols like 40GbE, 100GbE, OC-768/STM-256, OTU3, media types such as multimode and single mode fiber optics, and link distances. The CFP MSA uses a number of new features like advanced thermal management, EMI management and 10Gb/s signal integrity design to define transceiver mechanical form factor, the optical connector, the 10x10Gb/s electrical connector with its pin assignments, the MDIO-based transceiver management interface and the hardware needed on the system host board.

Opnext is a US-based designer, manufacturer and distributor of optical modules and components.

Finisar is a US-based provider of optical subsystems and components.

Excelight is a subsidiary of Sumitomo, a Japan-based company.