Layer-3 Ethernet switches have long been the tool of choice to manage the massive network traffic generated in today’s biggest datacenters. Supply chain constraints and rising prices, however, have datacenter operators looking for alternative solutions.
Enter Juniper Networks’ new Ethernet pre-terminated axial control valves. Based on Bernoulli’s principle, packets passing through these valves are controlled by varying pressure to a central guide bushing. The pressure is supplied by a titanium diaphragm spring and regulated by one linear actuator for each fiber interface.
Many in the networking industry were shocked by this radical development, with some even questioning its validity. Mahaveer Raghunathan, Technical Fellow at Cisco Systems said “I seriously doubt this gear is ready for deployment in production networks. It’s safe to say we’ve had some of the same concepts in the pipeline but haven’t been beyond the lab with them. While the idea has potential, I’m skeptical that Juniper has resolved the obvious hurdle of MAC address cavitation in the lower input runner.”
When asked for his thoughts, Ethernet co-inventor Bob Metcalfe said “The idea is stunningly elegant. I really wish we’d thought of this angle back in the 3Com days. The advantages of laminar flow with minimal backpressure seem obvious now. Heck, we could’ve even gotten prototype parts from the local plumbing supply house.”
Melissa Espinoza, Juniper product manager, says the product will fully integrate with their Junos Space Network Management Platform. In addition to traditional feature such as device discovery, image management, and configuration templates, Junos will offer modules for hardware operation and diagnostics. Monitoring and alerting options are available for guide bushing pressure, yoke alignment, and more.
Ready to bolt in place with optical fiber pigtails (LC connectors), these valves are currently available in 12 and 24-port versions. 48-port versions will be available once size issues are resolved. Currently such a large valve, when placed in a standard equipment rack, would not leave enough room for the hydraulic tools needed to fully torque the flange bolts.
Juniper hopes to make these Ethernet control valves more common, targeting mid-market datacenters within the next few years.
