Coherent Introduces Pluggable High Dynamic Range QSFP OTDR
Rhea-AI Summary
Coherent Corp. (NYSE: COHR) has unveiled a high-performance embedded Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (eOTDR) in a QSFP package, featuring an industry-leading 30 dB dynamic range for spans up to 150 km. This innovative diagnostic tool enables real-time fiber-plant health monitoring for data center interconnects and telecom networks.
The QSFP eOTDR provides precise fiber span measurements and industry-standard SOR span traces. When combined with optical channel monitors, it enables real-time optimization and predictive maintenance using AI and machine learning. The device features a CMIS-based interface for seamless router integration and supports a scalable 'pay-as-you-grow' deployment model.
The company will showcase this technology along with other fiber monitoring solutions at OFC 2025 in San Francisco, April 1-3, at booth #1519.
Positive
- Introduction of industry-leading 30 dB dynamic range OTDR in compact QSFP format
- Enables real-time network monitoring without additional infrastructure investment
- Supports scalable 'pay-as-you-grow' deployment model
Negative
- None.
Insights
Coherent's new high-performance embedded OTDR in a QSFP form factor represents a significant technical advancement in optical network diagnostics. The 30 dB dynamic range capability for spans up to 150 km addresses a critical need in the rapidly expanding fiber network infrastructure market.
What makes this product strategically valuable is its integration of complex diagnostics into the industry-standard QSFP package, eliminating the need for separate, expensive test equipment. The CMIS-based interface with optimized memory mapping reduces integration complexity for network operators, potentially accelerating adoption in major data centers and telecom networks.
The product's ability to enable real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance aligns perfectly with the industry shift toward AI-driven network optimization. By providing comprehensive fiber health data (absolute loss, reflection values, SOR traces) without network disruption, Coherent is addressing the reliability demands of hyperscale operators.
The "pay-as-you-grow" deployment model is particularly well-positioned for today's capital-conscious network expansion environment. This scalable approach could drive incremental revenue growth as networks expand, rather than requiring large upfront infrastructure investments.
This launch strengthens Coherent's position in the high-growth photonics market, particularly as bandwidth demands continue to accelerate with AI workloads and cloud expansion driving fiber deployment.
SAXONBURG, PA, March 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Coherent Corp. (NYSE: COHR), a global leader in photonics, announces its latest advancement in fiber network diagnostics: a high-performance embedded Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (eOTDR) in a QSFP package. With an industry-leading 30 dB dynamic range, it enables precise, repeatable OTDR traces for spans up to 150 km—all in a compact, pluggable form factor.
With rising bandwidth demands, real-time fiber-plant health monitoring is critical for data center interconnects and telecom networks. The eOTDR provides precise fiber span measurements, including absolute loss, reflection values, and industry-standard SOR span traces. Combined with optical channel monitors, it delivers unmatched visibility into channel and system performance, enabling real-time optimization and predictive maintenance using AI and machine learning.
As part of the modular embedded OTDR family from Coherent, this QSFP eOTDR features a CMIS-based interface with an optimized memory map, ensuring seamless integration into routers with minimal effort. This plug-and-play solution enhances network diagnostics while minimizing infrastructure disruptions.
As optical networks shift toward pluggable modules, the QSFP eOTDR enables in-service fiber health monitoring without additional infrastructure investment. Its pluggable format supports a scalable, "pay-as-you-grow" deployment model, allowing operators to expand efficiently while maintaining quality.
"Integrating an OTDR’s complex electrical processing and high-performance optics into a compact pluggable module was a major challenge," said Dr. Sanjai Parthasarthi, Chief Marketing Officer at Coherent. "This innovation delivers unparalleled flexibility and performance in fiber diagnostics."
Coherent continues to lead in embedded OTDR technology, with this QSFP addressing the needs of ultra-high-capacity fiber networks where real-time visibility and proactive maintenance are crucial. Alongside eOTDR, Coherent offers complementary fiber monitoring tools, including optical channel monitors, to provide a complete view of fiber health, maximize uptime, and optimize network performance.
Visit Coherent booth #1519 at OFC 2025 in San Francisco, April 1-3 to learn more about the eOTDR and other fiber monitoring solutions.
About Coherent
Coherent empowers market innovators to define the future through breakthrough technologies, from materials to systems. We deliver innovations that resonate with our customers in diversified applications for the industrial, communications, electronics, and instrumentation markets. Coherent has research and development, manufacturing, sales, service, and distribution facilities worldwide. For more information, please visit us at coherent.com.
Media Contact:
innovations@coherent.com
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