Covid-19 pandemic has been putting a huge amount of pressure on our networking infrastructure. In the last few months, data consumption has peaked in almost every category of internet usage. The traffic peak of last year easily has become the new average of today. Data centers are constantly searching for a better solution to overcome bandwidth limits of current edge-mount copper or fiber optics interfaces for input and output networking equipment.

In response to market demands for high speed transmission interface on printed circuit board (PCB), Neptec Optical Solutions has developed a number of PRIZM® LightTurn® cable assemblies optimized for 25+ Gbps VCSEL based links, which utilize an embedded parallel optical module directly mounted at the PCB for optimal signal integrity and better energy efficiency. Designed as a miniature detachable connector for high speed board mounted parallel optic modules, the PRIZM® LightTurn® connector not only improves PCB component densities, but also provides passive alignment and novel retention features allowing multiple re-mating perpendicular to the printed circuit board.  The PRIZM® LightTurn® connector consists of a multi-fiber ferrule enclosed in a protective housing with a photonic turn TIR lens array.

（Figure 1: Prizm® LightTurn® structure, image from US CONEC）

The use of the PRIZM® LightTurn® connector in combination with a MPO style connector provides a significant increase in card edge port density compared to using SFP transceivers, conventional array transceivers, or parallel active optical cables on the card edge. The connector is suitable for multiple applications including telecom, datacom, and the emerging high-speed data center. Neptec offers PLT to PLT assemblies and PLT to MPO assemblies with multi-mode fiber, bare ribbon or jacketed. Customization is available upon request.

Learn more about Prizm® LightTurn® here:  https://www.neptecos.com/product/prizm-lightturn-connector/