Energy saving for data centers using spatial multichannel optical wireless communication

Abstract

Data centers are crucial elements in modern information technology. In order to implement the next generation of data centers, new challenges must be overcome. These include reducing the energy consumption, increasing the data rates, reducing the communication latency, increasing the flexibility and scalability, and reducing the maintenance time and cost. One promising way for meeting these challenges is to employ multichannel optical wireless communication as part of the data center hybrid communication network. In this paper, we analyze three technologies that could be used in this context: MIMO (Multiple-in-Multipleout), multiplexing through orbital angular momentum of light, and direct modulation through the large number of modes associated with orbital angular momentum. Our results indicate that these technologies could provide an innovative and flexible means of meeting the challenges of the next generation of data centers.