Infinera announces new TSN optical switch for 5G and fibre deep applications

1 min read

Infinera has unveiled an X-haul-optimised packet optical switch that it says is purpose-built for Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN).

The Infinera EMXP-XH800 is Metro Ethernet Forum (MEF)-compliant and is designed to help network operators cost-effectively deploy 5G and fibre deep applications.

It delivers Common Public Radio Interface (CPRI), eCPRI, and Ethernet-based X-haul transport services for 4G/5G with lower latency and synchronisation. The EMXP-XH800 extends the benefits of the XTM Series by increasing switching capacity, improving synchronisation performance, and adding capabilities such as TSN to support current and new requirements as more networks evolve to 5G.

“In many regions, commercial 5G launches have begun, but the move from initial deployments to mass-market 5G is a significant step that has major ramifications for the transport network,” commented Sterling Perrin, Principal Analyst, Optical Networking & Transport at Heavy Reading. “As operators move to advanced 5G services, packet transport networks will be essential for lowering costs and boosting efficiencies. Heavy Reading research already shows strong operator interest in Time-Sensitive Networking for fronthaul. We expect this interest to increase in the coming years.”

Glenn Laxdal, Infinera’s Senior Vice President, Disaggregated, Edge, and Access Solutions, added, “Introducing the EMXP-XH800 is the natural evolution of Infinera’s packet optical portfolio, enhancing its existing solutions to better meet the needs of operators as networks advance to 5G. The XTM Series is already successful in networks globally, and with the latest switching capabilities delivered on the EMXP-XH800, we are confident our solution will continue to help our customers launch new services, achieve their business needs, and remain ahead of their competition.”

The EMXP-XH800 offers operators 800G of Ethernet aggregation, including 100G/200G coherent dense wavelength-division multiplexing optics, within a hardened street-cabinet-deployable device.

With it optimised for street cabinets, including right-to-left cooling and all-front access on the 1 rack unit ETSI 300-compliant hardened device. Infinera says this enables network operators to push high-capacity packet optical capabilities deep into access networks for any Ethernet-based backhaul application. It will be generally available in Q1 2020.