Lumentum introduced its new R64 Optical Circuit Switch (OCS), expanding its OCS portfolio for lower port count applications in AI data centers. The R64, designed as a 64×64-port platform, leverages Lumentum’s long-standing MEMS technology to deliver high reliability and scalability. The company will showcase the product at ECOC 2025 in Copenhagen later this month.
The R64 complements Lumentum’s higher-port-count R300 OCS, offering AI data center operators an option optimized for smaller-scale deployments. The platform supports up to 72×72 ports and provides full any-to-any fiber connectivity for both uni- and bi-directional applications. With a compact 2RU footprint, redundant power, and integrated cooling, the system targets hyperscale operators looking to reduce energy consumption while maintaining high performance.
Lumentum highlighted that the R64 consumes less than 150 W while carrying over 100 Tbps of optical traffic, representing up to 80% lower power use compared to traditional packet-based switches. The design also delivers low insertion loss, broad wavelength operation from O-band to C-band, and lifetime stability without the need for feedback loops. Sampling begins in Q4 2025, with general availability slated for the second half of 2026.
• 64×64 ports, scalable to 72×72
• <150 W power for >100 Tbps traffic capacity
• 80% lower energy consumption vs. packet-based switches
• Supports O-band and C-band optical operation
• 2RU footprint with redundant power and cooling
• Sampling Q4 2025, GA 2H 2026
“The market reception to our R300 OCS 300×300 port product has been extremely strong. The R64 now brings our proven MEMS technology in a smaller scale to help bring the advantages of OCS to even more applications within AI data center networks,” said Peter Roorda, general manager, Cloud & Networking, Lumentum.
🌐 Analysis: Lumentum’s move signals growing demand for optical circuit switching in AI data center networks, where energy efficiency and reliability are becoming critical factors. The R64 targets operators who need OCS capabilities without scaling to the 300×300 level of the R300. This announcement follows broader industry momentum around OCS adoption, with competitors also developing solutions that address both large- and mid-scale data center architectures.
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