An Overview of Next-Generation 100 and 40 Gigabit Ethernet Technologies

Advances in data center technology and Internet usage have pushed enterprises to 10 Gigabit Ethernet (GbE) links and search engines, carriers, ISPs to multiple 10 GbE links. Projected growth mandates the need for higher speed Internet connections. An IEEE Task Force has been established with the objective of standardizing 100 GbE between major Internet nodes and 40 GbE within the data center. If higher speed Ethernet is to be a success it must take advantage of existing data center copper and longer-reach fiber cables. The first implementation of the recently adopted PCS layer for Multi-Lane Distribution (MLD) was demonstrated by Ixia in mid 2008.