@inproceedings{f35c78038b1649bc81734e3abf5607a5,
title = "Patch panels in the sky: A case for free-space optics in data centers",
abstract = "We explore the vision of an all-wireless inter-rack datacenter fabric. Such a fabric, if realized, can offer operator the ability to dynamically reconfigure the network topology to adapt to future traffic demands while eliminating concerns related to cabling complexity. A key enabler for our vision is the use of free space optical (FSO) technology which, in contrast to traditional wireless/RF technologies, has lower interference footprint, can support longer range, and offers higher bandwidths. While FSO is an enabler, there are several significant practical challenges that need to be addressed before this vision turns into reality. We demonstrate the early promise of addressing these challenges and the potential benefits that this offers in comparison to state-of-the-art datacenter architectures.",
keywords = "Data center, Free-space optics, Reconfigurable",
author = "Navid Hamedazimi and Himanshu Gupta and Vyas Sekar and Das, \{Samir R.\}",
year = "2013",
month = nov,
day = "21",
doi = "10.1145/2535771.2535797",
language = "English",
isbn = "9781450325967",
series = "Proceedings of the 12th ACM Workshop on Hot Topics in Networks, HotNets 2013",
publisher = "Association for Computing Machinery",
booktitle = "Proceedings of the 12th ACM Workshop on Hot Topics in Networks, HotNets 2013",
note = "12th ACM Workshop on Hot Topics in Networks, HotNets 2013 ; Conference date: 21-11-2013 Through 22-11-2013",
}