Micro thermoelectric coolers empower next-gen pluggables for AI data centres

Tark Thermal Solutions has introduced new custom options in the Series of OptoTEC MBX thermoelectric coolers (TECs), engineered to handle emerging thermal challenges in ultra-high-speed optical transceivers that fuel the next wave of AI-driven data centres.

As hyperscale data centres and AI clusters deploy ever larger models and interconnect more servers, the bandwidth needed between compute and storage nodes is pushing transmission speeds from 800Gbps to 1.6Tbps per link. These higher-speed links generate more heat in smaller spaces and need increasingly compact, efficient, and reliable thermal management to stabilise sensitive laser temperatures, mitigate crosstalk, and preserve signal integrity over long-haul and multi-wavelength links. Effective miniaturised thermal management is critical to preventing signal degradation, maintaining laser wavelength stability and ensuring reliability.

This series of micro thermoelectric coolers maintains tight temperature control while fitting within the space constraints of cutting-edge optical pluggables.

• Precision Cooling: new thermoelectric materials and high-precision manufacturing deliver rapid thermal response for ultra-compact optical pluggables, including 800G, 1.6T, and anticipated 3.2T modules
• Micro Footprint: OptoTEC MBX TECs feature footprints as small as 1.5mm x 1.1mm and thicknesses down to 0.65mm, integrating seamlessly into advanced transceiver designs with minimal space and weight penalty
• Optimised for Performance: OptoTEC MBX achieves heat pumping densities up to 43 W/cm² at a lower operating current than traditional thermoelectric coolers, reducing total power draw for dense data centre deployments

“Our MBX Series redefines thermal management for a new era of optical pluggables. Engineered for thin profiles, high heat packing densities and scalability, MBX coolers position AI data centres and telecom providers to meet tomorrow’s bandwidth demands with confidence,” said Andrew Dereka, Thermoelectrics product director, Tark Thermal Solutions

As hyperscale applications push optical links to new performance heights, the MBX Series ensures that innovation in transceiver speed is matched by innovation in miniaturised, cost-effective, and extremely reliable thermal control.