Cignal AI: Deployment of 100ZR Coherent Pluggable Modules to Begin in 2024

As carriers gradually upgrade their optical access networks to higher speeds, the demand for 100ZR coherent pluggable devices is expected to fully emerge in 2024. According to a recent report released by Cignal AI, "Coherent at the Network Edge," 100ZR coherent pluggable modules fill a critical need for access hardware manufacturers by providing speeds exceeding 10Gbps. Currently, Acacia, Coherent/ADVA, Marvell/Innolight, and Marvell/OE Solutions have announced the launch of 100ZR pluggable coherent modules. In 2021, CableLabs set a 100Gbps coherent interface for access networks. More similar solutions are expected to be released this year, indicating strong industry demand for these products.

Cignal AI consulted with device manufacturers, hardware manufacturers, and network operators to comprehensively assess the demand and potential drivers of the 100ZR market, with the aim of gaining a deeper understanding of this new technology. Scott Wilkinson, Chief Analyst of Optical Devices at Cignal AI, stated, "Discussing the requirements and feasibility of this technology with hardware designers and end-users (not just device manufacturers) is crucial. We found that QSFP28-based 100ZR modules will play a key role in the next-generation fiber access networks."

The report revealed the following:

• QSFP28-based 100ZR will capture most of the access market share. QSFP-DD versions based on 400ZR technology cannot meet the critical size and power requirements of the network edge.

• Access network upgrades will drive the demand for 100ZR when enterprise and mobile traffic share the same network.

• In scenarios where 100ZR is the best solution, price is not the primary driving factor, but it must be significantly lower than the current 400ZR prices to replace 10G in the market.

• By 2024, the market demand for 100ZR devices will be influenced by the general availability of the product.

• After discussions with access hardware manufacturers, Cignal AI predicts that shipments of 100ZR modules will double in 2025.