Echola Systems has introduced two OptiShare Dual LC switches aimed at AI network testing for data center GPU cluster fabrics: the OPX4D-SM and OPX8D-SM. The idea is straightforward—share a single optical test resource across multiple devices under test (DUTs) and switch connections remotely, instead of dedicating expensive gear per DUT or constantly repatching fiber by hand.
The new OptiShare models support 800G and 1.6T optical connectivity using paired duplex LC interfaces in 2×FR4 configurations. Echola says both models provide plug-and-play connectivity to compatible transceivers over standard single-mode LC fiber cables, with no breakout cables required.
On port count, the OPX4D-SM is a 1×4 configuration supporting four DUTs, and the OPX8D-SM is a 1×8 configuration supporting eight DUTs. Echola also offers custom configurations up to 1×32 for 32 DUTs, with the workflow focused on selecting one DUT connection at a time for sequential testing.
OptiShare operates at the physical optical layer, routing compatible signals without optical-to-electrical-to-optical conversion, packet processing, or electrical signal regeneration. Echola describes the architecture as protocol- and bit-rate-transparent, targeting test environments where engineers want to reroute optics without changing the behavior of the link under test.
Management options include an HTTPS web interface, an SSH CLI, and REST APIs for remote control and integration into automation frameworks. Practically, that combination is what makes the hardware useful in regression and validation pipelines, where link switching needs to be coordinated tightly with test execution to keep runs repeatable and reduce manual patching.
Echola lists use cases including GPU cluster network validation, optical interoperability testing, automated regression testing, and production testing for switches, line cards, and other DUTs. The company also calls out sharing high-value test resources such as bit error rate testers, protocol analyzers, and high-speed optical interfaces across multiple DUTs.
Echola Systems is taking inquiries via its website.
Source: Echola Systems
