Key Highlights
- Semtech launches GN1878 VCSEL driver and GN1836 TIA, setting new standards for 1.6T multimode AI data centre interconnects.
- Collaboration with Broadcom delivers integrated 1.6T SR8 solutions with enhanced performance and reliability.
- The new PMD portfolio strengthens Semtech’s leadership in power efficiency, scalability, and signal integrity for hyperscale AI clusters.
Semtech Corporation, a global leader in high-performance semiconductors, Internet of Things (IoT) systems, and cloud connectivity, has announced the sampling of next-generation 1.6T multimode infrastructure and optical solutions aimed at powering the explosive growth of artificial intelligence (AI) data centres.
Semtech Introduces 1.6T Multimode Building Blocks
At the core of the new offering are the FiberEdge GN1878 200G VCSEL driver and GN1836 200G TIA, designed to support hyperscale operators in building power-efficient 1.6T interconnect solutions for short-reach AI training clusters.
These chipsets form the physical medium dependent (PMD) building blocks required for scaling AI infrastructure while reducing overall power consumption.
Market Growth Driven by 200G-per-Channel Technology
The shift to 200G-per-channel technology marks a critical milestone for the industry as AI clusters expand to handle increasingly complex models. Volume manufacturing is projected to begin in 2026, with analysts forecasting multimode optics to play a pivotal role in short-reach deployments, where efficiency and cost optimization are key.
Vladimir Kozlov, CEO and Chief Analyst at LightCounting, highlighted, “The transition to 1.6T transceivers will fuel growth for the remainder of the decade, creating strong demand for multimode solutions.”
Collaboration with Broadcom for 1.6T SR8 Solutions
In a strategic move, Semtech partnered with Broadcom to deliver complete 1.6T SR8 optical solutions. The GN1878 driver and GN1836 TIA integrate seamlessly with Broadcom’s 200G VCSEL and photodetector technology, ensuring robust performance and reliability.
“Together, these components deliver the performance and reliability that hyperscale data centres require for next-generation AI infrastructure,” said Manish Mehta, VP of Marketing and Operations for Broadcom’s Optical Systems Division.
Strategic Edge for Hyperscale Deployments
Semtech’s new PMD portfolio cements its leadership in signal integrity and power efficiency, offering several advantages for hyperscale artificial intelligence (AI) workloads:
- Reduced power-per-bit consumption in short-reach links
- Full readiness for aggregate 1.6T bandwidth
- Over 20 years of TIA expertise with proven reliability
- Strong adoption by module makers for mission-critical deployments
These advancements underscore Semtech’s long-term strategy to address the growing demand for AI data centre interconnects while aligning with trends in IoT and cloud-driven applications.
The GN1878 VCSEL Driver and GN1836 TIA are now available for sampling. Semtech will showcase its new solutions at ECOC 2025 in Copenhagen, running from September 28 to October 2.