Data center operators need more storage, computing power, and higher bandwidth to connect more devices. On top of these needs, they have a requirement to reduce the time it takes to get data to and from their customers.
The result of these forces is the development of the edge data center, sometimes referred to as edge computing. To some degree, data center operators have reached the limits of what can be done in large, centralized locations. Therefore, operators are creating new architectures for their data centers and edge data centers are the result. Minimizing latency of data to and from the customer and the core network are key drivers along with the following customer requirements as they:
- Are closer in proximity to the end users.
- Are smaller than traditional data centers.
- Run a more limited set of applications required for the local user community.
- Share operational overhead as a distributed node of larger data center organizations.
- Cache frequently used content.
These new architectures deliver three fundamental requirements among others, faster processing speed, lower latency, and increased bandwidth. These mandates require edge data centers to be built upon optical networks of two types:
1. The local optical network within the data center and the right transceivers, cables and racks for connecting servers to switches and storage.
2. The high-speed optical links, typically Wave Division Multiplexing (WDM), that connect the edge data center to the customer and to other service providers.
The types of transceivers required for these two functions are very different and each is a technical domain within itself. ProLabs has the technical expertise, transceivers, DAC and AOC cables, plus related equipment to supply any need within the data center and for long reach WDM links.
Using optical networks to build the right architecture for servers, switches and storage within the building as well as the high-speed connections to the core network provides the foundation that edge data centers need to deliver the latest applications. Some of these applications include:
- Real time – examples are AR/VR, IoT, connected cars, telemedicine.
- Data collection/analytics/AI – data from thousands of points is collected and analyzed.
- Compliance – copyright enforcement, geofencing, fulfilling local data privacy laws.
- Network function virtualization – moving applications from local appliances to the cloud.
ProLabs specializes in understanding how the optical network delivers value for edge network operators. Whether it is coherent optics for backbone links or 10G to 400G transceivers for within the data center, ProLabs is your one-stop-shop for quality tested gear for cutting edge data center operators.
Simply contact us to find out more.