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Understanding DAC and AOC in 400G Optical Transceivers: How to Choose the Right Option for Your Network

Understanding DAC and AOC in 400G Optical Transceivers: How to Choose the Right Option for Your Network

As network demands continue to soar, the need for faster and more efficient data transmission technologies becomes increasingly critical. Among the various solutions available, 400G optical transceivers stand out for their ability to handle immense data loads. However, when it comes to connecting these transceivers, two primary options are available: Direct Attach Cables (DAC) and Active Optical Cables (AOC). In this blog, we’ll explore the differences between DAC and AOC, and guide you on how to choose the right option for your 400G optical transceivers.

What are DAC and AOC?

Direct Attach Cables (DAC)

DACs are copper cables with transceivers permanently attached to both ends. They are designed for short-range data transmission, typically within a rack or between adjacent racks. DACs are available in two main types: passive and active.

  • Passive DACs: Do not have any signal amplification or processing components and rely on the transceivers and the copper medium to transmit data.
  • Active DACs: Contain electronics to boost signal strength, enabling slightly longer transmission distances and improved performance compared to passive DACs.

Active Optical Cables (AOC)

AOCs, on the other hand, use optical fibre instead of copper. They have active transceivers with integrated optics and electronics at both ends, which convert electrical signals to optical signals and vice versa. AOCs are designed for longer-range data transmission compared to DACs and are more suitable for applications requiring extended reach and higher performance.

Key Differences Between DAC and AOC

1. Transmission Distance

  • DAC: Typically supports short distances up to 7 meters for passive DACs and up to 15 meters for active DACs.
  • AOC: Supports much longer distances, often up to 100 meters or more, depending on the specific cable and network requirements.

2. Data Rate and Performance

  • DAC: Generally used for lower data rate applications, although active DACs can support higher data rates similar to AOCs.
  • AOC: Offers higher performance and can support data rates up to 400 Gbps, making them ideal for high-speed, long-distance data transmission.

3. Cable Material and Flexibility

  • DAC: Made from copper, which is heavier and less flexible than optical fibre. Copper cables can also be susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI).
  • AOC: Made from lightweight and flexible optical fibre, which is immune to EMI, offering greater flexibility and ease of installation.

4. Power Consumption

  • DAC: Passive DACs do not consume additional power, while active DACs require power for signal amplification.
  • AOC: Generally consumes more power than DACs due to the active components required for signal conversion and amplification.

5. Cost

  • DAC: Typically less expensive than AOCs, especially for short-distance applications.
  • AOC: Higher cost due to the advanced technology and materials used, but can be more cost-effective for long-distance applications due to reduced infrastructure requirements.

How to Choose Between DAC and AOC for 400G Optical Transceivers

Choosing between DAC and AOC for your 400G optical transceivers depends on several factors:

1. Distance Requirements

  • Short Distances: If your application involves short-distance connections within a rack or between adjacent racks, DACs are a cost-effective and efficient choice.
  • Long Distances: For longer distances, AOCs are the better option, offering higher performance and reliable data transmission over extended reaches.

2. Budget Considerations

  • Cost Sensitivity: If budget constraints are a primary concern and the application involves short distances, DACs provide a more economical solution.
  • Performance Over Cost: If performance and distance are critical, investing in AOCs is worthwhile despite the higher initial cost.

3. Network Environment

  • Electromagnetic Interference: In environments with high EMI, AOCs are preferable due to their immunity to interference.
  • Flexibility and Ease of Installation: AOCs offer greater flexibility and are easier to install in complex environments due to their lightweight and pliable nature.

4. Power Consumption

  • Low Power Needs: For applications where power consumption is a concern, passive DACs are ideal as they do not require additional power.
  • Performance Priority: If the priority is on performance and distance, AOCs, despite their higher power consumption, provide the necessary capabilities.

Conclusion

Both DAC and AOC play crucial roles in the realm of 400G optical transceivers, each offering distinct advantages depending on the specific requirements of your network. By understanding the differences and evaluating factors such as distance, budget, network environment, and power consumption, you can make an informed decision that ensures optimal performance and efficiency for your network infrastructure.

As you navigate the complexities of modern network demands, choosing the right cabling solution is pivotal in achieving a robust, high-performing network. Embrace the benefits of DAC and AOC and tailor your choices to meet the unique needs of your organisation.

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Yuliya Danilenko

Account Manager

Yuliya Danilenko has over four years of experience as an International Account Manager, specializing in Level 3 Remote Technical Support.

She assists large-scale multinational organizations, fixed and mobile operators, and leading equipment manufacturers worldwide in supporting legacy telecom equipment, generating additional revenue, and reducing operational expenses (OPEX).

In her leisure time, she loves travelling and exploring different cultures.

Javier Amado

Account Manager

As an international Account Manager for Carritech Telecommunications, Javier assists large fixed and mobile operators in supporting their legacy telecom equipment, particularly in Italy and LATAM. He ensures that the company delivers the best value to customers across all services specialized in legacy telecom equipment.

In his free time, Javier enjoys sports and is an avid fan of soccer and motorsports, including Formula 1 and MotoGP. He also considers himself a lifelong learner, seizing every opportunity for growth.

Aligned with the values of Carritech, Javier is committed to helping more operators worldwide achieve their environmental goals and continue to leave a positive footprint.

Christian Mekdad

Account Manager

Christian brings over a decade of IT industry experience and 5 years in the telecom industry to his role as an Account Manager at Carritech, with a focus on optical transceiver solutions and GPON technology.

As a trilingual person speaking French, Spanish and English, he manages operations in French-speaking countries and communicates with international traders from around the world. Christian will step outside his comfort zone to find the most effective solutions to your challenges.

In his free time, Christian enjoys playing rugby and trekking in the mountains of Madrid.

Luis Alvarez

Account Manager

Luis Alvarez brings more than 5 years of experience in the telecom industry. With a focus on optical transceiver solutions, he adeptly meets the diverse needs of Carritech’s international clientele, particularly in Spain and Latin America.

Known for his consultative approach, Luis ensures clients receive customised, effective network solutions.

When not enhancing telecom infrastructures, Luis enjoys working out, exploring scenic routes with his dog and participating in local events.

Shane Driver

Senior Account Manager

Shane Driver brings over 12 years of telecom industry experience to his role as Senior Account Manager at Carritech.

With a focus on Network Hardware Support Services, Shane meets the diverse needs of Carritech’s international clients, particularly in the UK, Ireland, and mainland Europe. Known for his customer-centric approach, Shane ensures his clients receive support solutions that align with their unique requirements.

Outside of telecommunications, Shane enjoys swimming, playing golf, and spending time with his young family.

Yura Saskevych

Director of Global Accounts

Yura Saskevych has over a decade of vast experience in sales of telecommunication hardware and network services support. He is the Director of Global Accounts at Carritech and holds a Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering.

Having been focused extensively on transport (Optical and MW), Access and Core Networks, Yura has successfully helped customers worldwide extend the life of existing telecommunication networks, reduce expenses and meet their environmental goals.

With a strong background in the telecom industry, Yura will engage with clients with a customised approach, provide required solutions and ensure that their telecom systems are running smoothly.

Adept at working simultaneously on multiple accounts with the highest accuracy and professional salesmanship Yura collaborates closely with engineers, technicians, the procurement department and project managers to plan, adapt, and optimize customer network solutions.

Yura is passionate about delivering innovative and cost-effective solutions that meet performance, security, and quality standards.

When he’s not enhancing telecom infrastructures, he enjoys doing sports, gardening and exploring scenic routes.

Miguel Asín Barcos

Sales Director

Miguel Asín Barcos serves as the Sales Director at Carritech, where he focuses on driving revenue growth and enhancing customer satisfaction.

Based in Madrid, Miguel draws on his more than 20 years of experience in the telecom industry to lead and support his sales team.

Outside of telecommunications, he enjoys football, watching movies, and spending time with his family.

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