High-Speed Interconnects: Copper or Fiber?

In this conversation, Judy Warner and Matt Burns dive into the real-world challenges engineers face as data rates push past 224 Gbps and AI strains data center infrastructure. They break down the copper vs. fiber tradeoffs, why optical solutions are becoming critical for longer distances, and how midboard optics offer better flexibility than front panel options. Matt also covers how PCIe and CXL are evolving to support AI workloads and why modular system designs are key to future-proofing networks. Whether you're designing high-speed interconnects or just trying to keep up with industry shifts, this episode unpacks the trends shaping the future of high-speed connectivity.   🤝Join The EEcosystem Community for more free engineering resources and member-only benefits at https://theeecosystem.com   Episode Links: Samtec at OFC  https://blog.samtec.com/post/samtec-at-ofc-2025/   Samtec Technical Library https://blog.samtec.com/post/samtec-at-ofc-2025/   Sponsor Links: 📘 Join The EEcosystem Community  and receive a free 90-day subscription to all of Eric Bogatin's training at The Signal Integrity Academy. Also enjoy more technical downloads and community member-only benefits.   👨🏽‍💻For free Technical Resources and to Learn more about Keysight Pathwave EDA Software Solutions visit the homepage now.   💻 Visit Cofactr for AI-Powered real-time part data Intelligence and supply-chain connected workflow and logistics.   🔗For all of your high-speed and RF connectors visit the Samtec website and access excellent engineering resources while you are there.    ⛰️Visit Summit Interconnect for all your complex PCB manufacturing needs.    🌎 Visit Isola Group global for High performance laminates and prepreg materials for PCB manufacturing, as well as new IC packaging interposer    💽 For high complexity EDA solutions visit SIEMENS EDA Website    💡For a free subscription Signal Integrity Journal and articles about SI/PI/EMI, news and technical resources follow the link above.   📡 For Custom RF and MW PCBs visit the Transline Technology Website to learn more.    🔌 Picotest specializes in high-fidelity testing and measurement tools, primarily for power-related applications. Visit their website for more product information and excellent training materials from expert Steve Sandler