CPO Reliability and External Laser Source Development

This white paper discusses the evolution of co-packaged optics (CPO) technology and its implications for network infrastructure in data centers, particularly in relation to artificial intelligence applications. It outlines the significance of external laser sources (ELS) in enhancing the reliability and performance of CPO systems. The paper details the projected market growth for AI-related optics, estimating a substantial increase to over $26 billion by 2026. It emphasizes the critical role of reliability in CPO architecture, particularly given the high stakes of optical failures in large GPU clusters. The document also presents Lumentum's approach to designing reliable laser sources, leveraging proven technology to meet aggressive reliability targets set by industry standards. Key design principles, including thermal management and optimized power operation, are discussed to illustrate how they contribute to the overall reliability of CPO systems. The paper concludes with insights into the future of CPO technology and its market potential.