XKL has introduced its MediaLight line, adding two 1RU platforms aimed at expanding 100G, 400G, and 800G optical networking with pluggable optics: the MediaLight Xponder and the MediaLight Muxponder. The systems target link aggregation, long-haul transport, and “plug-and-play” IPoDWDM link activation in flexible configurations up to 4.8 T.
The company describes MediaLight as designed for port, transceiver, and functional flexibility, with support for optical layer automation. XKL also points to its manufacturing approach for faster service turn-ups, using optical components sourced from multiple vendors.
MediaLight Xponder: media conversion plus transponder functions
The MediaLight Xponder combines media conversion and transponder functionality in a 1RU chassis with 24 “license-free” QSFP-DD/QSFP28 transceiver ports. XKL says it’s intended to simplify and lower the cost of 100G-to-400G by converting traffic between transceiver types and lane formats (single-lane and four-lane).
For transport use cases, the platform supports Bright and ZR/ZR+ transceivers for long-haul links. It also includes multi-degree node capability with four OSC channels, and an optional integrated OTDR for fiber-break localization and proactive fiber monitoring.
MediaLight Muxponder: 4.8 T aggregation in 1RU
The MediaLight Muxponder is positioned as a high-density aggregation device for 100G and 400G links, with 4.8 T total capacity in a 1RU chassis and 24 “license-free” QSFP-DD/QSFP28 ports. A 12-channel mux/demux supports up to 12 wavelengths on a fiber pair, with wave and client optics accessible via the front panel.
The system includes an integrated EDFA. It also provides an expansion port intended for additional channel growth, using stackable EDFAs and OTDR.
One practical angle here is the reuse story: XKL says MediaLight can repurpose LR4 transceivers during network upgrades or expansions. If that works operationally in a given design, it could reduce truck rolls and lead times tied to sourcing new optics, but it also puts more pressure on clean validation of lane formats, optics compatibility, and operational monitoring.
MediaLight products are available to order now, and XKL expects them to ship in 2026.
Source: XKL
