Designers of electronic devices are looking for higher speeds, one of which is to use new connector specifications to achieve this. CDFP 2.0 achieves a data rate of 25 Gbps per channel on 16 channels, resulting in a total data transfer speed of 400 Gbps.

The CDFP is a fourth-generation system, but it is also the first larger 16x25G = 400G module and interconnect system. The CDFP is available in two sizes, with a mezzanine connector, two PCB and four-row edge socket connectors, and 120 contacts in the 29.71 mm module version.

The CDFP module is designed for client interfaces inside the data center for extremely high port density. The modular design makes it ideal for low power applications based on copper, VCSEL or silicon optoelectronics. CDFP module is expected to be applied to up to 100 meters MMF

And an industry standard of 2 km length SMF. For example, a CDFP module can be used for a 400 Gbps interface, or sixteen interfaces with a rate of 25 Gbps or four interfaces with a rate of 100 Gbps.

In 2013, CDFPMSA announced the formation of an industry consortium of seven leading network organizations that define the specifications for interoperable 400 Gbps hot-swappable modules and drive adoption in the industry. The CDFP Industry Alliance is committed to increasing product choices in the market, reducing end-user costs, and ensuring interoperability to expand the market for copper and fiber optic transceivers more quickly. And meet industry needs by upgrading technology and providing products that are interchangeable mechanically and electrically.

The CDFP specification complies with the OIF CEI-28GVSR and IEEE802.3 electrical and optical interface standards and supports pluggable applications. Its 32mm interface allows OEMs to design up to 5Tbps of capacity on a line card. Its connector design has good EMI protection.

Thermal paths and larger heat sink designs are more challenging issues in the development process. Individual connector manufacturers have developed a patented design that combines a heat sink structure with a cage to solve this problem. Passive fiber optic cables using 32 OM4 fibers and MPO connectors to support 16 channel connections have been considered cost prohibitive, and some custom CDFP connector systems have advantages in system package applications with similar size requirements.

The CDFP 400 Gbps interface provides an extremely high level of integration, outstanding performance and long-term reliability. The specification is also compatible with in-line cables, active optical cables, and connected optical modules.