MACOM introduced a new low-power EML laser driver with an integrated equalizer, specifically targeting linear SFP112 modules for next-generation 50G and 100G mobile fronthaul applications. The MALD-39071 Linear Driver, part of MACOM’s PURE DRIVE series, offers a compelling alternative to retimed architectures by significantly reducing power consumption, enhancing signal latency, and lowering overall costs. The driver integrates input equalization, automatic gain control, and a broad dynamic range, supporting multiple data rates and form factors, including SFP112, QSFP112, 800G OSFP, and 800G QSFP-DD. As a member of the Mobile Optical Pluggable Alliance (MOPA), MACOM developed this solution to address increasing performance requirements and power efficiency demands for optical solutions in 5G and future network buildouts.
According to Stephen G. Daly, President and CEO of MACOM, this EML driver is tailored specifically for mobile fronthaul infrastructure, reflecting MACOM’s strategic focus on high-performance, low-power optics critical to 5G deployments. MACOM will showcase the MALD-39071 at the OFC2025 conference in San Francisco, including a dedicated technical session exploring the use of linear pluggable optics (LPO) within MOPA fronthaul architectures.
• MACOM launches low-power MALD-39071 EML driver with integrated equalizer.
• Targets linear pluggable optics (LPO) modules for 50G/100G mobile fronthaul.
• PURE DRIVE technology significantly reduces power and improves latency.
• Supports multiple data rates and form factors including SFP112 and QSFP-DD.
• Developed in alignment with Mobile Optical Pluggable Alliance (MOPA).
“This latest EML driver addresses critical needs for next-generation fronthaul with power efficiency and enhanced performance, accelerating 5G and future network deployments,” said Stephen G. Daly, President and CEO of MACOM.
- Electro-absorption modulated laser (EML) drivers control the optical intensity modulation of lasers, enabling high-speed data transmission in fiber optic networks. Integrated equalization optimizes signal integrity over varying distances and channel conditions, making these drivers essential for maintaining low-latency, high-quality signals in demanding fronthaul environments.