Implementing 1.6T Optical Transceivers: Key Challenges & Solutions for System Engineers

Solving the challenges of implementation

Jul 15, 2025

Dr. Carlos Berto 

1.6T and 1.6T OSFP-XD Transceivers

Implementing 1.6T transceivers in network design comes with several challenges. Let's take a look at how Axiom solves the challenges of implementation with our industry-leading 1.6T transceivers.

High signal degradation

Maintaining signal integrity at such high data rates is a significant challenge. As speeds increase, the risk of signal degradation and bit errors also rises. Advanced modulation techniques like PAM4 require precise signal processing to ensure reliable transmission.

High power consumption

While 1.6T transceivers are designed to be energy-efficient, the overall power consumption of network devices can still be substantial. Efficient cooling solutions and low-power components are essential to manage heat and reduce operational costs.

Lack of compatibility and interoperability

Ensuring compatibility with existing network infrastructure and standards is crucial. Integrating 1.6T transceivers with current devices and protocols requires careful planning and testing to avoid disruptions.

High costs

The initial investment in 1.6T transceivers and associated infrastructure upgrades can be high. Network operators need to balance the cost of implementation with the expected benefits in performance and scalability.

Complexity of network design

Designing networks to accommodate 1.6T transceivers involves increased complexity. Network architects must consider factors such as port density, cabling, and the integration of advanced DSP technologies.

Standardization

The development and adoption of standards for 1.6T transceivers are ongoing. Ensuring that these standards are widely accepted and implemented is essential for seamless integration and interoperability.

High latency

Reducing latency while increasing data rates is a challenge. High-speed transceivers must be optimized to minimize delays in data transmission, which is critical for applications like AI and real-time communications.

Scalability

While 1.6T transceivers offer enhanced scalability, network designs must be flexible enough to accommodate future upgrades to even higher speeds, such as 3.2T transceivers.

Axiom employs various strategies to overcome the challenges associated with implementing 1.6T transceivers:

Integrating DSP to improve signal integrity

To address signal integrity issues, Axiom uses advanced digital signal processing (DSP) techniques and error correction methods.

Reducing power consumption

Reducing power consumption is critical. Axiom uses advanced CMOS technology and efficient DSP designs to minimize power usage. Innovations in cooling solutions and low-power components also help manage heat and reduce operational costs.

Ensuring compatibility and interoperability

Ensuring compatibility and interoperability involves adhering to industry standards and conducting rigorous testing. Axiom tests the transceivers in various network environments to ensure they work seamlessly with different devices and protocols.

Optimizing cost management

To manage costs, Axiom focuses on mass manufacturing and leveraging economies of scale. Axiom is developing a cost-effective, mass-manufacturable silicon photonics transceivers, reducing assembly and packaging costs.

Streamlining network design

Simplifying network design involves using modular and scalable solutions. Axiom offers advanced optical transport systems that integrate seamlessly into existing networks, reducing complexity and enhancing scalability.

Improving standardization

Axiom follows the IEEE and OIF standards to stay aligned with industry standards. This ensures Axiom’s products are compatible with a wide range of devices and future-proofed against evolving technologies.

Reducing latency 

To reduce latency, Axiom uses advanced modulation techniques and optimized DSP algorithms. The DSP, for instance, integrates low-latency operation into the designs, meeting the stringent requirements of AI and machine learning applications.

Improving scalability

Ensuring scalability involves designing transceivers that support multiple configurations and high port densities. This allows networks to expand efficiently as demand grows. Axiom provides scalable testing to validate performance from lab to live environments.

Axiom strategies for 1.6T transceivers:

Power optimization and performance insights

Axiom is actively involved in developing low-power 1.6T transceivers. We focus on optimizing power efficiency and enhancing system performance to meet the demands of high-performance computing and AI applications.

Integration with silicon photonics

Axiom is offering silicon photonics technology to scale the AI "factories." The new silicon photonics transceivers technologies enable massive scaling of AI architecture while reducing power consumption.

Advanced modulation techniques and compatibility

Axiom works with lasers for silicon photonics products. Our focus is on advanced modulation techniques to achieve higher data densities and ensure compatibility with existing network infrastructures.

Advanced signal processing and low-latency operation

Axiom integrates advanced DSP techniques into the 1.6T transceivers to enhance signal quality and reduce latency. This is crucial for applications requiring high-speed, low-latency data transmission, such as AI and machine learning.

Compatibility and interoperability testing

Axiom ensures the 1.6T transceivers are compatible with various network environments by conducting rigorous testing. This helps in seamless integration with different devices and protocols, simplifying network upgrades.

Energy efficiency and cost management

Axiom uses advanced CMOS technology and efficient DSP designs to minimize power usage in the 1.6T transceivers. This approach helps manage power consumption and reduce operational costs.

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