The TechStack How Photonics Will Transform AI Data Centers: Lumentum CSO/CMO Rafik Ward
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Dec 3, 2025 
Rafik Ward, the Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer at Lumentum, shares insights into the future of optics in AI data centers. He explains how optical interconnects are crucial for handling the immense data demands driven by AI. Rafik discusses Lumentum's expertise in lasers and the shift from copper to optics at the rack level. He also highlights challenges in rebranding for B2B markets and scaling manufacturing to meet demand. Discover the exciting potential of co-packaged optics and why traditional copper won't disappear entirely!
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AI Drives Massive Optics Demand
- AI data centers require massive optics because clusters now contain hundreds of thousands of GPUs that must be interconnected.
- Lumentum's decades of telecom optics heritage directly maps to these data-center interconnect needs.
Telecom Tech Reused For Hyperscale Data Centers
- Lumentum repurposes long‑haul telecom technologies like EMLs, MEMS and pump lasers for data‑center volumes and speeds.
- These legacy technologies scale from thousands to tens of millions of units as cloud demand grows.
Design Plus Scale Is Competitive Moat
- Laser design and high-volume manufacturing are core competencies that differentiate Lumentum.
- The company combines sophisticated design talent and scale to convert prototypes into tens of millions of devices.