Multi-Fiber Connectivity For AI and Other Applications

Oct. 3, 2024
Discover how multi-fiber connectivity is transforming high-capacity networks and data centers by maximizing connection density and flexibility. Join CommScope’s Tom Epps and Matt Baldassano as they delve into the advanced connectors and architectures that power the future of AI networks and optical performance.

October 3, 2024
3:00 PM ET / 2:00 PM CT / 12:00 PM PT / 8:00 PM GMT
Sponsor: CommScope
Duration: 1 hour
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Summary

In today’s high-speed, high-capacity networks, real estate is at a premium and value is placed on housing as many network connections as possible in a given space. That value has been a driving force in the evolution of fiber-optic connectivity for optical networks, particularly including those within data centers. Multi-fiber connectivity is a critical enabling technology that has permitted data center operators to maximize the number of connections they can fit into their facilities.  
 
Multi-fiber connectivity fulfills a critical need in artificial intelligence (AI) networks, which use significant amounts of multimode fiber within GPU clusters. In these optical networks, angled physical contact (APC) multimode connectors provide a level of channel performance assurance beyond that of traditional structured cabling solutions thanks to their superior return-loss characteristics. As AI networks present explosive demand for bandwidth, multi-fiber connectivity is poised to provide both flexibility and return on investment. 
 
This event, delivered by CommScope infrastructure system engineer Tom Epps and systems engineering manager Matt Baldassano, will take a 360-degree look at multi-fiber connectivity and its role in high-capacity networks. Tom will cover the specific connector types that accommodate multiple fibers, and describe the optical-network architectures and speeds that these connectors support. He’ll present a practical, hands-on-style look at the end-to-end cable-and-connecting-hardware setups for various architectures and speeds. Join us to learn more about the advantages of building a fiber network with flexibility so moves/adds/changes can be accommodated with minimal disruption. 

Speakers

Tom Epps
Infrastructure Systems Engineer
CommScope


Tom Epps is a Infrastructure Systems Engineer for the Enterprise Division of CommScope, with a focus on Fiber and Copper solutions. He has over 25 years’ experience in the Telecommunications industry, including Data Center Design, physical infrastructure solutions training, and pre and post-sale technical support. Tom has a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Western Illinois University.

Matt Baldassano 
Systems Engineering Manager
 
CommScope


Matt Baldassano is a Systems Engineering Manager with CommScope and has served multiple roles during his 16 years including Business Development, Technical Marketing and Field Application Engineering. He’s developed and patented structured cabling solutions for intelligent buildings and data centers and works closely with CommScope’s partner ecosystem and customer base on data center fiber networks in cloud, edge, multi-tenant, and hyperscale environments.  He resides in Brooklyn, NY with his wife and two daughters and runs an urban wine-making club that has been featured in the NY Times.  

Moderator: Patrick McLaughlin
Chief Editor
Cabling Installation & Maintenance

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