Telxius Expands to 400G with Juniper's Converged Optical Routing

Telxius, a leading global connectivity provider, is set to scale its core and edge network infrastructure to 400G using Juniper Networks’ Converged Optical Routing Architecture (CORA). This collaboration with Juniper Networks (NYSE:JNPR), known for its secure AI-native networks, aims to simplify network capacity expansion and efficiently deliver enhanced connectivity to metro networks and data center interconnects (DCI). The upgrade will enhance connectivity across distances of approximately 100 km to points of presence (PoPs) within Telxius’ expansive global footprint, including Spain, the Americas, and wider Europe.

Telxius is 100% owned by Telefónica and is headquartered in Madrid, Spain. Telxius operates a robust subsea cable network, connecting Europe, Latin America, and Africa, with assets including the MAREA, BRUSA, and Atlantic Coast North (ACN) subsea cables. The company is also expanding its data center footprint in key markets, including Spain, USA, and Brazil. Additionally, Telxius has a large portfolio of over 23,000 towers in Europe, which it offers to tenants through its wireless infrastructure business. Looking ahead, Telxius is planning to expand its subsea cable network and data center capacity to meet growing demand for digital services.

By integrating Juniper’s CORA and PTX Series Packet Transport Routers, Telxius will create a more robust and efficient network. The project will migrate key architecture components to these advanced systems, freeing up substantial reserved bandwidth and enabling flexible expansion to 400G capacity. Leveraging IP over Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (IPoDWDM) technology, the solution maximizes routing platform capacity and scales link bandwidth, reaching more network locations and customers while reducing the need for external DWDM equipment. 

Key Points:

• Telxius is scaling its network infrastructure to 400G using Juniper Networks’ CORA.
• The upgrade enhances connectivity across approximately 100 km to PoPs in Spain, the Americas, and wider Europe.
• The integration involves Juniper’s CORA and PTX Series Packet Transport Routers.
• The project will free up bandwidth and enable flexible 400G expansion.
• The solution leverages IPoDWDM technology to maximize routing capacity and bandwidth.
• Telxius aims to simplify network operations, increase reliability, and reduce power consumption.

Read More

Dell'Oro: Front End Networks and Data Center Switch Sales

Ethernet data center switches deployed in non-accelerated infrastructure, or “Front-End Networks” are forecast to generate more than $100B in sales over the next five years, according to a new report by Dell’Oro Group. By 2028, 51.2 and 102.4 Tbps network chips are expected to enable the deployment of nearly 100M shipments of 800 Gbps and 1.6 Tbps switch ports in front-end networks. AI infrastructure build-outs, also known as “Back-End Networks”, have the potential to double these deployments.

“While Cloud Service Providers’ focus in the near term is on building AI back-end networks to support their AI infrastructure, we anticipate an accelerated pace of investments in front-end networks in the second half of our forecast horizon,” said Sameh Boujelbene, Vice President at Dell’Oro Group. “Despite exponential growth opportunities in back-end networks, front-end networks are expected to continue driving the bulk of Ethernet data center switch sales over the next few years. Maintaining robust spending in front-end networks remains, therefore, essential to boosting the performance of major Ethernet switch suppliers.

“While back-end network will be the first to migrate to higher speed, we anticipate 51.2 Tbps-based switch deployment in front-end network to debut in 2024 and to enable a swift adoption of 800 Gbps. 102.4 Tbps-based switch deployments are expected to follow in 2025/2026 time frame and enable a second wave of 800 Gbps and the initial wave of 1.6 Tbps deployment,” added Boujelbene.

Additional highlights from the Ethernet Switch—Data Center 5-Year July 2024 Forecast Report:

• Linear Drive Pluggable Optics (LPOs), an alternative to Co-Packaged Optics (CPOs), are expected to gain material traction during our forecast horizon.
• SONiC (Software for Open Networking in the Cloud) adoption is expected to accelerate, achieving a 10-20 percent penetration rate in Tier 2/3 Cloud service providers and large enterprises by 2028.

https://www.delloro.com/news/front-end-networks-will-account-for-more-than-100b-in-data-center-switch-sales-over-the-next-five-years/

Read More

Dell'Oro: Data Center Liquid Cooling Market Takes Off

The Data Center Liquid Cooling market has hit an inflection point, with mainstream adoption of liquid cooling starting in the second half of 2024, according to a new report from Dell'Oro Group that forecasts a market opportunity of more than $15 billion over the next five years (2024-2028).

“After tracking the Data Center Liquid Cooling market for five years, it’s finally transitioning from a niche technology deployed in specific segments of the market to mainstream applicability,” said Lucas Beran, Research Director at Dell’Oro Group. “Historically, liquid cooling vendors touted increased efficiency and sustainability as factors behind the technology’s adoption. While those benefits remain true, it’s proved to be the increased thermal management performance capabilities, meeting the particularly demanding thermal requirements of high-end processors and accelerated servers, that is the current driving force behind its adoption.

“As this adoption occurs, it’s single-phase direct-to-chip liquid cooling (DLC) deployments that are scaling first. This is the result of long-standing adoption in the high-performance computing (HPC) industry that has helped establish a more mature vendor ecosystem and end-user know-how to deploy and service the technology. Additionally, NVIDIA has specified single-phase DLC as the cooling technology to support its upcoming GB200 compute nodes. Yet, other forms of liquid cooling are emerging in the rapidly growing liquid cooling market. Both single-phase immersion and two-phase DLC are undergoing testing, validation, and proof of concept work, which is materializing in growing pipelines for those vendors. Two-phase immersion, on the other hand, is facing an uphill battle towards adoption, as it remains particularly challenged by the regulatory environment surrounding PFAS fluid use,” continued Beran.

Additional highlights from the Data Center Liquid Cooling Advanced Research Report:

• CoolIT Systems, Boyd, and Motivair were the top three vendors in Data Center Liquid Cooling revenues in 2023.
• Single-phase DLC is the leading data center liquid cooling technology. This is expected to continue throughout the forecast period, however, two-phase DLC and single-phase immersion revenues are also forecast to materially grow during the forecast period.
• The Enterprise customer segment, including HPC, was the leading customer segment of Data Center Liquid Cooling in 2023. However, the service provider customer segment, which includes the Top 10 Cloud, Rest-of-Cloud, Colocation, and Telco, is forecast to significantly outpace the growth of enterprises during the forecast period.
• Air-assisted liquid cooling and liquid-to-liquid heat exchange types are both forecast to grow at significant double-digit rates during the forecast period. By 2028, they are forecast to account for more than a third of the overall data center thermal management market.

https://www.delloro.com/news/ata-center-liquid-cooling-market-set-to-go-mainstream-and-top-15-b-over-the-next-five-years/

Read More

Comcast Trims Connectivity Capex by 12.9% While Maintaining Growth

 Comcast reported its second-quarter 2024 results, showcasing mixed performance across its various business segments. In the Connectivity & Platforms division, which includes Residential and Business Connectivity units, revenue remained relatively stable with a slight decrease of 0.6% compared to the previous year. However, profitability in this segment improved, with Adjusted EBITDA increasing by 1.6% to $8.5 billion and Adjusted EBITDA margin expanding by 90 basis points to a record-high 41.9%. Capital expenditures for Connectivity & Platforms decreased by 12.9% to $1.9 billion, reflecting lower spending on customer premise equipment and scalable infrastructure, partially offset by higher investment in line extensions and support capital.

The company's overall performance was characterized by steady growth in key areas such as broadband ARPU and wireless customer additions, despite facing challenges in other segments. Total consolidated revenue decreased by 2.7% year-over-year to $29.7 billion, while adjusted earnings per share increased by 7.0% to $1.21.

Comcast Chairman and CEO Brian L. Roberts commented on the results: "We grew Adjusted EPS high single digits and continued to invest aggressively in our businesses while returning $3.4 billion to shareholders. Broadband ARPU increased by 3.6% and we delivered 6% revenue growth in our connectivity businesses, while expanding our Adjusted EBITDA margin across Connectivity & Platforms to a record-high 41.9%. Media returned to Adjusted EBITDA growth, driven by Peacock, which delivered the best year-over-year improvement for any quarter since its launch in 2020."

Residential Connectivity & Platforms:

- Domestic broadband revenue increased by 3.0% to $6.6 billion

- Domestic wireless revenue grew by 17.3% to $1.0 billion

- Total domestic broadband customers decreased by 120,000

- Domestic wireless lines increased by 322,000 to 7.2 million

Business Services Connectivity:

- Revenue increased by 5.7% to $2.4 billion

- Adjusted EBITDA grew by 4.4% to $1.4 billion

- Adjusted EBITDA margin was 57.0%

Media:

- Revenue increased by 2.1% to $6.3 billion

- Adjusted EBITDA grew by 9.0% to $1.4 billion

- Peacock revenue increased by 28% to $1.0 billion, with paid subscribers growing by 38% to 33 million

Studios:

- Revenue decreased by 27.0% to $2.3 billion

- Adjusted EBITDA declined by 51.4% to $124 million

Theme Parks:

- Revenue decreased by 10.6% to $2.0 billion

- Adjusted EBITDA declined by 24.1% to $632 million

Read More

Verizon Maintains Course in Q2, Cuts Capital Spending

Verizon Communications Inc. reported its second-quarter 2024 results, showcasing a mixed financial performance with some positive trends. The company's total consolidated operating revenue increased slightly by 0.6% year-over-year to $32.8 billion, driven by growth in service and other revenue. However, profitability saw a slight decline, with earnings per share dropping from $1.10 in Q2 2023 to $1.09 in Q2 2024. On an adjusted basis, EPS decreased from $1.21 to $1.15. Capital expenditures for the first half of 2024 decreased significantly to $8.1 billion, compared to $10.1 billion in the same period of 2023, as the company returned to historic levels of capital intensity.

The company reported strong performance in key areas such as wireless service revenue, broadband subscriber growth, and free cash flow. Total wireless service revenue grew by 3.5% year-over-year to $19.8 billion, while free cash flow for the first half of 2024 increased to $8.5 billion from $8.0 billion in the previous year.

Verizon Chairman and CEO Hans Vestberg commented on the results: "The sequential and year over year improvements in the second quarter were a reflection of operational excellence and the moves we made to bring choice, value and control to our customers' lives. Our industry-leading network serves as a catalyst for how our millions of customers live their lives, and serves as the backbone for new and emerging technologies. We continue to build and expand on our strengths and successes with new products and services, and we are confident that this upward momentum will position us for future growth."

Consumer Group:

- Total revenue increased by 1.5% year-over-year to $24.9 billion

- Wireless service revenue grew by 3.7% to $16.3 billion

- Reported 8,000 wireless retail postpaid phone net losses, an improvement from 136,000 losses in Q2 2023

- Added 218,000 fixed wireless net additions and 24,000 Fios Internet net additions

Business Group:

- Total revenue decreased by 2.4% year-over-year to $7.3 billion

- Wireless service revenue increased by 2.4% to $3.4 billion

- Reported 268,000 wireless retail postpaid net additions, including 156,000 postpaid phone net additions

- Added 160,000 fixed wireless net additions, the highest quarterly result to date

Read More

Ontario's telMAX deploys Adtran's Mosaic CP microservices platform

Canadian service provider telMAX is utilizing Adtran's scalable, programmable fiber access technology to extend high-speed broadband services to more communities. telMAX is leveraging Adtran’s Mosaic CP microservices platform, integrated with the GLDS BroadHub subscriber management platform, to enable rapid and cost-effective network expansion. The advanced automation features of this technology streamline network management and service activation, enhancing service delivery, troubleshooting, and customer care. The solution is built on Adtran’s compact SDX 6000 Series of Combo PON optical line terminals (OLTs) and multigigabit XGS-PON optical network terminals, designed for bandwidth-intensive subscribers.

This deployment empowers telMAX to create a more agile and customer-focused network, significantly increasing overall satisfaction as they bring ultra-fast full-fiber broadband to more households and businesses in Southern Ontario. With the new fiber access solution, telMAX can perform many operations remotely, ensuring swift, trouble-free installations for subscribers. This efficiency optimizes productivity and reduces operational costs, enabling telMAX to rapidly expand into new areas and offer exclusive, lightning-fast internet connectivity.

• telMAX is expanding its high-speed broadband services using Adtran’s technology.

• Integration includes Adtran’s Mosaic CP platform and SDX Series OLTs with GLDS BroadHub® subscriber management.

• Advanced automation streamlines network management, enhancing service delivery and customer care.

• The deployment aims to provide ultra-fast full-fiber broadband to more communities in Southern Ontario.

• Remote operations and efficient installations reduce costs and optimize productivity.

• telMAX’s network expansion covers Newmarket, Stouffville, Brooklin, and Aurora.

• The new solution supports real-time network adjustments and rapid response to customer demands, enhancing scalability and service quality.

Read More

Network configuration error blamed for AT&T wireless outage

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has issued a comprehensive report detailing the causes and impacts of a nationwide AT&T wireless service outage on February 22, 2024. The outage, which lasted over 12 hours, prevented customers from using voice and data services, blocking more than 92 million phone calls and over 25,000 attempts to reach 911. The report also includes recommendations to prevent similar incidents in the future.

FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “When you sign up for wireless service, you expect it to be available when you need it – especially for emergencies.” The outage not only disrupted consumer communications but also affected public safety personnel using FirstNet. The FCC’s Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau promptly launched an investigation, revealing several key findings about the outage’s extensive impact and the subsequent corrective actions taken by AT&T.

The outage affected users in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, impacting over 125 million devices. During the critical early hours of the outage, all 4G voice and 5G data services were unavailable to AT&T customers, including FirstNet subscribers. This disruption particularly impacted FirstNet, as device registrations approached normal only after the restoration of the dedicated network elements connected to AT&T’s broader network.

The FCC report highlights the technical cause of the outage, pinpointing two key steps that led to the network configuration error. An incorrect configuration was first made by an AT&T employee, followed by another employee loading this erroneous network change. This sequence revealed insufficient oversight and controls within AT&T’s processes, allowing the misconfiguration to propagate. Additionally, the network’s inability to handle the sudden influx of re-registration requests once the error was corrected prolonged the outage significantly.

Key Points:

• The outage blocked over 92 million voice calls and prevented more than 25,000 calls to 911.
• AT&T prioritized restoring FirstNet services but delayed notifying FirstNet users about the outage.
• The outage was caused by a network configuration error due to insufficient oversight and controls.
• The downstream network element lacked controls to mitigate the error, triggering Protection Mode and disconnecting all users.
• System limitations caused registration congestion, prolonging the outage even after the initial error was corrected.
• AT&T has since implemented additional technical controls, forensic work, and peer review procedures to prevent similar issues.

Corrective Actions by AT&T:

• Implemented additional technical controls within 48 hours of the outage.
• Scanned and updated network elements to prevent similar errors.
• Enhanced network robustness and resilience through ongoing forensic work.
• Adopted new procedures ensuring maintenance work requires completed peer reviews.
• Improved registration systems to handle higher capacity and quicker recovery from Protection Mode.

The full FCC report can be accessed here..

Read More

Samsung Electro-Mechanics partners with AMD for substrates

Samsung Electro-Mechanics (SEMCO) has announced a collaboration with AMD to supply high-performance substrates designed for hyperscale data center compute applications. These advanced substrates are produced at SEMCO’s technology hub in Busan and a newly constructed state-of-the-art factory in Vietnam. SEMCO has invested 1.9 trillion KRW (approximately $1.6 billion USD) in the new FCBGA factory, highlighting its dedication to enhancing substrate technology and manufacturing capabilities to meet the highest industry standards and future technological needs.

The partnership with AMD aims to address the challenges of integrating multiple semiconductor chips (chiplets) on a single large substrate. These substrates, crucial for CPU and GPU applications, provide larger surface areas and higher layer counts necessary for dense interconnections in advanced data centers. Compared to standard computer substrates, those used in data centers are ten times larger and feature three times more layers, ensuring efficient power delivery and signal integrity. SEMCO’s innovative manufacturing processes minimize warpage, ensuring high yields during chip mounting. The FCBGA factory is equipped with real-time data collection and modeling capabilities, allowing SEMCO to develop predictive manufacturing models that ensure the integrity of signal, power, and mechanical components, positioning SEMCO as a leader in next-generation data center substrates.

Key Points:

• Collaboration with AMD focuses on hyperscale data center compute applications.

• Substrates are produced in Busan, South Korea, and a new factory in Vietnam.

• SEMCO invested 1.9 trillion KRW (approximately $1.6 billion USD) in the FCBGA factory.

• Substrates support CPU/GPU applications with larger surface areas and higher layer counts.

• Data center substrates are ten times larger and have three times more layers than standard substrates.

• Advanced manufacturing processes ensure efficient power delivery and signal integrity.

• The new factory features real-time data collection and predictive modeling capabilities.

• SEMCO leads in producing substrates with passive and active components for next-gen data centers.

Read More

NTT and Okayama University show gigahertz ultrasonic circuit

NTT and Okayama University have developed a gigahertz ultrasonic circuit that utilizes the principle of topology. This innovative development promises to revolutionize the design and performance of ultrasonic filters used in smartphones and IoT devices.

The new technology employs a special material called ultrasonic topological phononic crystal, created using an artificial elastic structure with periodic arrays of microscopic holes. This unique design allows ultrasonic waves to propagate stably through complex, microscopic channels without backscattering, a problem that plagues conventional ultrasonic circuits.

The implications of this breakthrough are significant for the wireless communication industry. By solving the issue of reflection in folded small waveguide structures, the researchers have paved the way for the miniaturization and enhanced performance of ultrasonic filters. This advancement has applications for the evolving needs of 5G networks and the growing IoT ecosystem, where efficient signal processing and minimal interference are paramount.

The research team successfully demonstrated a ring-waveguide coupled structure that reduced the space required by conventional technology to less than 1/100, while also showcasing the basic operation of a gigahertz ultrasonic filter. This achievement marks a significant step towards more compact, integrated, and multifunctional ultrasonic filters for next-generation wireless communication devices.

Key Points:

• World's first gigahertz ultrasonic circuit using topological principles
• Enables stable ultrasonic wave propagation without backscattering
• Potential for miniaturization of ultrasonic filters to less than 1/100 of current size
• Applications in smartphones, IoT devices, and 5G networks
• Developed using ultrasonic topological phononic crystal material
• Demonstrates successful operation of a compact gigahertz ultrasonic filter
• Expected to lead to more efficient and high-performance wireless communication devices

https://group.ntt/en/newsrelease/2024/07/22/240722b.html

Read More

Equinix acquires 3 data centers in the Philippines

 Equinix has announced its planned entry into the Philippines through the acquisition of three data centers from Total Information Management (TIM), a prominent technology solutions provider. This strategic move, following recent expansions in Malaysia and Indonesia, aims to help businesses leverage the digital opportunities in the rapidly growing Southeast Asia region. The all-cash transaction, valued at approximately 15 times the projected EBITDA at full utilization, is expected to close in the second half of 2024, pending customary closing conditions.

The acquisition will enable Equinix to meet the digital needs of local and international businesses in the Philippines. Enterprises, cloud and IT service providers, and network service providers worldwide can use Platform Equinix® to interconnect and exchange data securely within a vibrant ecosystem of business partners and customers. TIM’s existing customers, including network and financial services companies, will also gain access to Equinix’s global ecosystem of over 10,000 companies, including more than 2,000 networks and 3,000 cloud and IT service providers. With the Philippines’ digital economy expected to grow to $35 billion by 2025, driven by a highly engaged digital population and government initiatives, this acquisition positions Equinix to support the country’s surging demand for digital infrastructure services.

Key Points:

• Acquisition includes three carrier-neutral data centers with over 1,000 cabinets and land for expansion.
• Equinix’s expansion in Southeast Asia supports digital transformation for local and global customers.
• Equinix is also expanding into Jakarta, Indonesia, and Chennai, India, and increasing its footprint in Singapore.
• Platform Equinix spans 260 data centers across 71 metros in 33 countries, including 56 data centers in 14 key metros in Asia-Pacific.
• The Philippines’ digital economy is projected to reach $35 billion by 2025, growing at a 20% CAGR.

Read More

CoreWeave brings NVIDIA Blackwell clusters to the market

CoreWeave has announced it will be among the first providers to offer large-scale NVIDIA Blackwell clusters, featuring two configurations: the NVIDIA HGX B200 and the NVIDIA GB200 NVL72. Both configurations are interconnected with NVIDIA Quantum-2 InfiniBand networking, promising significant advancements in AI, data processing, and high-performance computing.

The NVIDIA HGX B200, designed for the most demanding workloads, leverages NVIDIA Blackwell GPUs to deliver 15 times faster real-time inference on trillion-parameter models. Meanwhile, the NVIDIA GB200 NVL72 is a liquid-cooled, rack-scaled solution that integrates 36 NVIDIA Grace CPUs and 72 NVIDIA Blackwell GPUs, achieving up to 30 times faster real-time trillion-parameter LLM inference. Introduced earlier this year at NVIDIA GTC, the Blackwell architecture can link up to 72 GPUs in a single NVIDIA NVLink domain, enabling enhanced GPU-GPU communication bandwidth. This innovation supports a wide range of applications beyond AI training and inference, including quantum computing, drug discovery, and fusion energy.

Key Points:

• CoreWeave to deliver NVIDIA Blackwell clusters with configurations HGX B200 and GB200 NVL72.
• Both configurations use NVIDIA Quantum-2 InfiniBand networking for high-performance interconnectivity.
• NVIDIA HGX B200 offers 15 times faster real-time inference for trillion-parameter models.
• NVIDIA GB200 NVL72 combines 36 Grace CPUs and 72 Blackwell GPUs for 30 times faster LLM inference.
• Blackwell architecture supports extensive GPU-GPU communication for advanced applications beyond AI.

https://www.coreweave.com/

Read More

Telefónica invests in Nearby Computing for edge orchestration

Wayra, Telefónica’s corporate venture capital arm, has announced its investment in Nearby Computing, a leading startup in edge computing orchestration and automation. This investment is part of a $7 million Series A financing round aimed at accelerating Nearby Computing’s expansion and strengthening its market position.

Nearby Computing is integrated with CAMARA, an open-source project that supports Open Gateway, a global telco initiative led by the GSMA. This initiative aims to transform telecommunications networks into programmable platforms, enhancing the scalability of standardized projects. Nearby Computing’s solution streamlines the orchestration of deployments across various edge nodes, ensuring high levels of availability and low latency, which are crucial in today’s complex digital landscape.

Key Points:

• Wayra’s investment is part of a $7 million Series A funding round.
• Nearby Computing is recognized for excellence in edge computing orchestration and automation.
• The startup is integrated with CAMARA and Open Gateway, global initiatives led by the GSMA.
• Nearby Computing’s solutions ensure high availability and low latency for edge deployments.
• The investment will support the company’s expansion and market consolidation.

https://www.telefonica.com/

Read More

SECOM deploys Infinera in southeastern Colorado

SECOM, a subsidiary of Southeast Colorado Power Association (SECPA), is modernizing its middle-mile and business Ethernet access network using Infinera’s XTM Series optical transport solution. The network upgrade is set to support the bandwidth growth of large enterprises and industrial parks while providing the flexibility, reliability, and reach needed to close the digital divide in the region.

Key Points:

• The fiber network spans around 2,000 miles throughout southeastern Colorado.
• Infinera’s XTM Series will enable multi-gigabit Ethernet services and 100G/400G broadband transport.
• The upgrade enhances connectivity for homes, schools, libraries, government entities, telecoms, and businesses.
• The modernization aims to close the digital divide and maximize economic and social development opportunities.
• The XTM Series provides a temperature-hardened and low-latency packet optical middle-mile network suitable for various traffic types and demanding environments. 
• Infinera worked with its partner World Wide Technology (WWT) on the network design and deployment for SECOM.

Read More

Converge ICT picks Ribbon's Apollo for optical backbone

Converge ICT Solutions, a leading fixed broadband service provider in the Philippines, has selected Ribbon Communications’ Apollo optical networking system to optimize data transmission across its backbone network. Ribbon’s advanced 5-nanometer (nm) 140Gbaud transmission chipset will expand Converge’s fiber network capacity from 800 Gigabits per second (Gbps) to 1.2 Terabits per second (Tbps) per channel. This upgrade will offer three times the required capacity for hyperscale applications, which typically demand around 400 Gbps.

In addition to the Apollo system, Converge is leveraging Ribbon’s Muse SDN Domain Orchestration, providing the necessary toolsets for maximizing network capabilities. This includes automation, planning, node design, and real-time control, ensuring peak efficiency. “We’re thrilled to deepen our relationship with Converge ICT with this major new deployment. Coupled with our technology, our local presence and proven round-the-clock after-sales support are key factors in our ability to support Converge ICT as they ramp their network to meet increasing demands for capacity,” said Ribbon COO and EVP Sam Bucci.

Key Points:

• Converge ICT Solutions is enhancing its network with Ribbon Communications’ Apollo optical networking system.
• Ribbon’s 5nm 140Gbaud chipset will increase Converge’s network capacity from 800 Gbps to 1.2 Tbps per channel.
• The upgrade will provide three times the capacity needed for hyperscale applications.
• Converge is also using Ribbon’s Muse SDN Domain Orchestration for automation and real-time control.
• Ribbon Communications, based in Texas, offers real-time communications and IP optical networking solutions globally.
• Converge has been investing in its network infrastructure, doubling its metro backbone capacity to 800 Gbps in 2021.
• Recently, Converge signed an MOU with Super Micro Computer Inc. to establish AI-powered, green data centers in the Philippines.

Read More

Sivers Semiconductors appoints Vickram Vathulya as CEO

Sivers Semiconductors AB (Sivers), a  supplier of integrated chips and photonics modules for the most advanced communications and sensor solutions, appointed Vickram Vathulya as its new President & CEO, succeeding Anders Storm, effective August 19, 2024.

Dr. Vathulya most recently served as President of Nuvotronics, spearheading a strategic, operational, and cultural transformation for long-term growth and value creation. Prior to that, he revitalized the standard products business at Maxim Semiconductors, the largest and most profitable business in the company portfolio. His experience also includes other executive leadership roles, such as successfully growing a variety of RF and wireless businesses at Maxim Integrated and NXP Semiconductors. Vathulya has a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Lehigh University in Pennsylvania and an MBA from the Berkeley Haas School of Business, University of California.

Dr. Bami Bastani, recently appointed Chairman of the Board for the Sivers Semiconductors AB, said: "Vickram's leadership qualities and industry expertise are exactly what Sivers was looking for in this CEO appointment in order to accelerate our aggressive growth strategy in the US and worldwide. His proven ability to deliver profitable growth and build high-performance teams will be invaluable as we aim to cement our position as a leader in advanced semiconductor and photonic solutions."

Read More

PhotonDelta extends from Netherlands to Silicon Valley

PhotonDelta, a photonic chip accelerator based in Eindhoven, Netherlands, has announced the opening of a new office in Silicon Valley. This move is part of PhotonDelta’s strategy to foster collaboration between European and North American organizations, both of which are leaders in the emerging field of photonic chip technology. The expansion aims to boost the photonic chip industry by leveraging the strengths of both regions to overcome the limitations of traditional semiconductor technology, thereby accelerating innovation in AI and other advanced applications.

Photonic chips are crucial for developing smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient devices, which are essential for sustainable advancements in AI. These chips not only enhance data center performance and reduce energy consumption but also hold significant potential for quantum computing and sensing solutions in various sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and automotive. To support these innovations, PhotonDelta has secured $1.2 billion in funding to run numerous R&D programs, lead international roadmapping activities, and invest in pioneering startups that utilize photonic integrated circuit (PIC) technology.

PhotonDelta’s new North American hub will bring the Netherlands’ world-class photonic chip capabilities to North American organizations. The PhotonDelta ecosystem includes over 70 organizations, forming a complete value chain from design services to multiple foundries for photonic chip fabrication, packaging, assembly, and testing. This ecosystem also comprises an increasing number of fabless companies that use PIC technology for innovative solutions. Jorn Smeets, Managing Director North America at PhotonDelta, emphasized the importance of this expansion in connecting know-how, expertise, networks, and funding between North America and the Netherlands.

Key Points about PhotonDelta:

• Founded: Based in the Netherlands

• Funding: $1.2 billion to support R&D programs and invest in startups

• Platforms: Indium Phosphide (InP), Silicon Nitride (SiN), and a pilot line for Silicon Photonics (SiPh)

• InP PICs: Ideal for communication and sensing applications

• SiN PICs: Suited for detectors, spectrometers, biosensors, and quantum computers

• SiPh PICs: Used in photonic circuits compatible with CMOS fabrication

• Packaging Partner: PHIX

https://www.photondelta.com

Read More

Keysight automates PCIe and UCIe chiplet design

Keysight Technologies introduced PCIe Designer, a new addition to its Advanced Design System (ADS) suite, designed to support simulation workflows for high-speed, high-frequency digital designs. This intelligent design environment is tailored for modeling and simulating the latest Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIe) Gen5 and Gen6 systems. Additionally, Keysight has enhanced its electronic design automation (EDA) platform by upgrading the Chiplet PHY Designer tool to estimate chiplet die-to-die link margin performance and Voltage Transfer Function (VTF) compliance.

PCIe is a critical interface standard in the electronics industry, known for its high-speed data transfer, scalability, and adaptability. Its applications range from consumer electronics to high-performance computing and critical infrastructure systems. Keysight’s new PCIe Designer and enhanced Chiplet PHY Designer aim to simplify complex design processes and ensure compliance, thereby improving productivity and reducing time-to-market.

Key Features and Enhancements:

• PCIe Designer:
• Automates setup for multi-link, multi-lane, and multi-level (PAM4) PCIe systems.
• Simplifies simulation setup, reducing time-to-first-insight.
• Facilitates quick AMI model generation for system analysis.
• Supports NRZ and PAM4 modulations with wizard-driven AMI model generation for transmitters (Tx) and receivers (Rx).
• Streamlined, simulation-driven virtual compliance testing to ensure design quality and reduce design costs.
• Chiplet PHY Designer Enhancements:
• First simulation solution for Universal Chiplet Interconnect Express (UCIe) standards.
• Predicts die-to-die link margin, VTF for channel compliance, and forwarded clock capability.
• New design exploration and report generation features for accelerated signal integrity analysis and compliance verification.

Read More

Global IT Outage: Crowdstrike Root Cause Analysis still Pending

A faulty update from Crowdstrike on Friday morning impacted IT systems worldwide dependent on Microsoft Windows machines. The outage, which has been described at the largest global IT outage to worldwide, led to the severe disruption of businesses, government functions,  and health services.

By the weekend, most systems appeared to have been restored, however a technical root cause analysis as to how the faulty release made it past QA points, had yet to be published by the company.

Statement from George Kurtz, CEO of CrowdStrike

“CrowdStrike is actively assisting customers affected by a defect identified in a recent content update for Windows hosts. This issue does not impact Mac or Linux hosts and is not related to a security incident or cyberattack. We have identified and isolated the problem, and a fix has been deployed. We advise customers to check the support portal for the latest updates and to continue monitoring our website for comprehensive and ongoing information. We also recommend that organizations communicate with CrowdStrike representatives through official channels to ensure they receive accurate information. Our team is fully mobilized to guarantee the security and stability of our customers’ systems.”

Tech Update page from CrowdStrike:

https://www.crowdstrike.com/blog/falcon-update-for-windows-hosts-technical-details/

About CrowdStrike

CrowdStrike was founded in 2011 by George Kurtz, Dimitri Aliev, and Glenn Gerber, with headquarters in Austin, Texas and major office in Sunnyvale, California.

Major Revenue-Producing Services

CrowdStrike's major revenue-producing services include:

1. Falcon endpoint protection: A cloud-native endpoint security solution that provides real-time threat detection and response.

2. Falcon Intelligence: A threat intelligence platform that provides customers with insights into emerging threats and attack trends.

3. CrowdStrike Services: A team of security experts who provide incident response, threat hunting, and security consulting services to customers.

4. Cloud Security: A cloud-based security solution that provides customers with secure access to cloud-based applications and data.

CEO and Background

George Kurtz is the CEO of CrowdStrike. He has over 30 years of experience in the technology industry, with a focus on cybersecurity. Prior to founding CrowdStrike, Kurtz was the CEO of Foundstone, a leading provider of security services, which was acquired by McAfee in 2006.

Financial Performance

CrowdStrike has experienced rapid growth in recent years, driven by the increasing demand for advanced cybersecurity solutions. Here are some highlights from their financial performance:

• In 2023, Crowdstrike's revenue was $3.1B.
• In 2022, Crowdstrike's revenue was $2.2B.

Major Clients and Partners:

• CrowdStrike has a diverse customer base across various industries, including:
• Government agencies: The US Department of Defense, the National Security Agency (NSA), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
• Fortune 500 companies such as Microsoft, Uber, and Netflix.
• Healthcare providers: Organizations such as the Stanford Health Care System and the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Medical Center.

Some of CrowdStrike's notable partnerships include:

• Microsoft: A strategic partnership to integrate CrowdStrike's Falcon endpoint protection with Microsoft's Azure Active Directory.
• IBM: A partnership to integrate CrowdStrike's Falcon endpoint protection with IBM's Watson for Cybersecurity platform.
• NVIDIA: A partnership to combine CrowdStrike's threat intelligence with NVIDIA's graphics processing unit (GPU) technology for AI-powered threat detection.

Read More

Aire Networks picks Nokia Mobile Core in Spain

Aire Networks has partnered with Nokia to modernize its network in Spain, aiming to improve customer experience through expanded coverage, faster data speeds, and enhanced reliability. The deal includes Nokia’s voice core, packet core, subscriber data management, policy control, and signaling solutions, which will increase network capacity and support Aire’s network evolution to unlock new services and business models.

Key Points:

• Network Enhancement: Expanded coverage, faster data speeds, and improved reliability.
• Comprehensive Solutions: Includes Nokia’s voice core, packet core, subscriber data management, policy control, and signaling.
• Increased Capacity: Solutions designed to boost network capacity.
• New Services: Enables faster time to value and new revenue streams.
• Network Management: Aire Networks will use Nokia’s MantaRay NM for optimized network monitoring and management.
• Existing Infrastructure: Integration with current Nokia products like Switching Fabric.

https://www.nokia.com/about-us/news/releases/2024/07/17/spains-aire-networks-selects-nokia-mobile-core-solutions-to-enhance-customer-experience/

Read More

Brightspeed picks Ribbon for Network Upgrade

Brightspeed, one of the nation’s largest fiber builders, selected Ribbon Communications' network infrastructure while ensuring uninterrupted services for existing customers. The deployment includes Ribbon’s C20 Call Controller, Application Server, SBC, PSX centralized policy and routing server, and Ribbon Application Management Platform (RAMP).

•  Infrastructure Upgrade: Replacement of power-hungry legacy equipment with efficient, next-generation technology.
•   Operational Efficiency: The new infrastructure will use less power, HVAC, and real estate while offering enhanced capabilities.
•   Long-term Reliability: Ensures Brightspeed’s network remains reliable without impacting operational or billing systems.
•   Professional Services: Ribbon’s top-tier services make the deployment seamless for customers and regulatory bodies.

Read More