Date: 03/11/2010

Ethernet switching chip from Broadcom for 100 Tbps scalable systems

Broadcom Corporation has released the BCM88600 series, an Ethernet switching chip for modular switching platforms scalable from 100 Gigabits per second (Gbps) to 100 Terabits per second (Tbps). It is reported that the BCM88600 series integrates the features and functionality of high performance line card into a single chip. Broadcom also believes that the new release marks the successful integration of Dune Networks (acquired December 2009) switch fabric solutions into the Broadcom product portfolio.

The BCM88600 series is suitable for building a variety of network switch solutions, from small fixed configurations to large standalone modular chassis-based solutions. The BCM88600 enables multiple chassis of different sizes to be interconnected via a two-stage fabric element organization (e.g. FE600)

The key features of BCM88600 include:

1. The BCM88600 series is supported by Broadcom's Application Programming Interface (API).
2. The BCM88600 series can process a single stream of 100GbE at Layer 2-Layer 4 with integrated traffic management capabilities.
3. The BCM88600 series is suggested for application in data centers, enterprise, optical transport networks (OTNs), routers and other service provider systems.

"Next generation data centers will include tens of thousands of 10GbE servers coupled with 40GbE/100GbE aggregation systems that will push infrastructure performance, density and scalability to new levels. Combined with StrataXGS switch products, the BCM88600 strengthens Broadcom's position as a supplier of the widest range of silicon products for high-performance switching infrastructure in next generation networks." said Jag Bolaria, Senior Analyst, The Linley Group

"With the BCM88600 series, Broadcom has again enabled Ethernet to outpace other technologies in terms of bandwidth and performance, providing both the scalability and capacity required to develop ultra high-performance networks. The introduction of the new product series within just ten months post acquisition underscores our ability to successfully integrate acquired technologies into our portfolio without slowing down the pace of innovation." said Martin Lund, Senior Vice President & General Manager, Broadcom Network Switching Business Unit

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