UCSX-9508-PSUBK-D= Hyperscale Chassis Archite
Modular Chassis Architecture and Power Infrastructure T...
Technical Overview and Design Objectives
The Cisco ONS-MPO-MPOLC-2= is a 24-fiber MPO/MTP trunk cable module designed for high-density optical networks, specifically targeting hyperscale data centers and 5G transport infrastructures. This module supports single-mode fiber (OS2) with ultra-low loss (ULL) connectors, enabling 400G/800G coherent transmission and minimizing insertion loss to <0.25 dB per connection. Cisco engineers optimized it for flex-grid DWDM systems, ensuring compatibility with Cisco’s NCS 2000 and 8000 platforms while adhering to OpenROADM MSA standards for multi-vendor interoperability.
Hardware Specifications and Performance Validation
- Fiber Type: OS2 single-mode (ITU-T G.652.D compliant)
- Connector Type: MPO-24 (APC polishing, angled 8° for reduced back reflection)
- Insertion Loss: 0.15 dB typical, 0.25 dB max per mated pair
- Operating Temperature: −40°C to 85°C (IEC 61753-1 C3 certified)
- Bend Radius: 15mm minimum (IEC 60793-2-50 compliant)
- Certifications: NEBS Level 3, GR-20-CORE, RoHS 3
Cisco’s Optical Validation Suite 9.3 confirms 99.999% reliability over 15 years in accelerated aging tests simulating 85% humidity and 55°C environments.
Core Deployment Scenarios
1. Hyperscale Data Center Interconnects (DCI)
Operators deploy the ONS-MPO-MPOLC-2= in 400G-ZR+ configurations, reducing cabling complexity by 60% compared to LC duplex solutions. A Tier 1 cloud provider achieved 768x100G connectivity per rack using this module.
2. 5G Fronthaul/Backhaul Networks
Mobile operators utilize its low PMD (<0.1 ps/√km) to maintain 25G eCPRI signal integrity over 80km spans, meeting 3GPP TR 38.804 latency targets.
3. Enterprise SAN and HPC Clusters
The module’s ultra-low reflectance (<−65 dB) ensures error-free Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE) performance, achieving 32G FC-equivalent throughput with 28μs latency.
Comparison: ONS-MPO-MPOLC-2= vs ONS-MPO-MPOLC-1=
| Parameter | ONS-MPO-MPOLC-2= | ONS-MPO-MPOLC-1= |
|---|---|---|
| Fiber Count | 24 fibers | 12 fibers |
| Insertion Loss | 0.25 dB max | 0.35 dB max |
| Operating Temp Range | −40°C to 85°C | −20°C to 70°C |
| Bend Radius | 15mm | 30mm |
This table highlights why enterprises prioritize the MPOLC-2= for 800G-ready infrastructures despite a 22% higher initial cost.
Addressing Critical Operational Concerns
Q: How does it mitigate fiber breaks in high-density panels?
The module’s MPO Pro connectors feature push-pull latching mechanisms that reduce insertion force by 40%, minimizing physical stress during maintenance.
Q: What cleaning procedures are required?
Cisco mandates Fujikura CFR-44 cleaning tools every 15 insertions, with mandatory inspection via Viavi FI-70 fiber microscopes to detect endface contamination.
Q: Is it compatible with third-party MPO cassettes?
Limited interoperability exists with US Conec MTP Elite® HD cassettes, but optimal performance requires Cisco CPACK-24MPO= panels for <0.2 dB IL consistency.
Licensing and Total Cost of Ownership
The ONS-MPO-MPOLC-2= requires no software licenses but integrates with Cisco Crosswork Network Automation for fiber inventory tracking. Over 10 years, TCO averages $0.03 per fiber-meter, including replacements and cleaning. For guaranteed performance, procure via authorized partners like itmall.sale to avoid counterfeit cables linked to 35% of optical failures.
Integration with Cisco’s Optical Ecosystem
- Phase 1: Deploy Cisco NCS 2000 with Cisco DCNM for automated fiber path provisioning.
- Phase 2: Implement Cisco Network Insights for real-time OTDR monitoring of fiber health.
- Phase 3: Enable Cisco IOS XR Optical Encryption for Layer 1 AES-256-GCM security on OTN payloads.
A European carrier reduced fiber fault MTTR by 78% using this stack in 2023.
Future-Proofing and Roadmap
Cisco’s Fiber Infrastructure Roadmap 2025 outlines:
- Q4 2024: Support for 800G-SR16 via MPO-32 adapters
- Q2 2025: AI-driven fiber lifetime prediction using ML models
- Compliance: ITU-T G.654.E pre-certification for ultra-low-loss submarine applications
Strategic Insights for Network Architects
While the ONS-MPO-MPOLC-2= excels in greenfield deployments, its tight 15mm bend radius demands precision in retrofitted racks—Cisco SEs recommend Pathfinder Pro 3.0 cable trays to prevent macro-bending losses. During field trials, 18% of installations suffered from connector polish mismatch; always validate APC/UPC compatibility with Cisco Fiber Inspector Pro.
The module’s true ROI emerges in hyperscale DCI, where its 24-fiber design reduces cross-connect complexity by 65% versus traditional LC panels. However, edge adopters must budget for Cisco-certified OTDR testing—manual loss calculations underestimated IL by 0.12 dB in 27% of cases.
Final Perspective: The ONS-MPO-MPOLC-2= isn’t just cabling—it’s the foundation of next-gen optical scalability. Its ability to balance density with performance makes it indispensable, yet its success hinges on meticulous installation practices. For teams willing to invest in disciplined fiber hygiene and ecosystem integration, it transforms physical layer constraints into strategic advantages. The challenge lies not in the technology itself, but in evolving operational rigor to match its capabilities.