Coherent introduces upgraded Multi-Rail for greater data center optical transport efficiency
Coherent has announced major enhancements to its Multi-Rail technology platform, focusing on optical transport networks used by hyperscale operators and colocation providers. The upgraded platform features a newly developed Dynamic Gain Equalizer designed to combine C and L bands within a single, compact module. Coherent reports this configuration doubles transmission bandwidth and reduces module footprint by 20 percent, allowing data center operators to expand network capacity without matching increases in rack space, power, or cooling demand.
Additional technical improvements include upgraded Optical Channel Monitoring, which Coherent says now supports up to 32 monitoring points per module and cuts scan times by half. These advancements are intended to boost network provisioning speed and visibility, giving operators more flexibility to scale optical transport infrastructure as capacity needs grow.
According to Coherent, the Multi-Rail upgrades leverage its expertise in indium phosphide (InP) and gallium arsenide (GaAs) semiconductor fabrication, together with liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) wavelength selective switch and dynamic equalizer components. The company highlights that in-house manufacturing supports continuity and reliability critical for high-performance data center applications.
Coherent is working with network equipment manufacturers to integrate the upgraded Multi-Rail capabilities, with product samples expected in late 2026. A demonstration of the next-generation platform will be available at ECOC 2025, Booth C3124.
Source: Coherent
