# Cisco and NVIDIA unveil USFP module for AI factory networks

Digest AI · Hardware & Compute · published 2026-10-24T17:11:00Z

Canonical: https://digestai.news/story/cisco-and-nvidia-unveil-usfp-module-for-ai-factory-networks

## Summary

Cisco and NVIDIA have announced the Ultra-Dense Small Form Factor Pluggable (USFP), a high-density optical module designed for AI factory networks. The technology facilitates data transmission speeds of 400 gigabits per second (Gb/s) per lane, doubling the current 200Gb/s per lane capabilities. This allows for an overall capacity of 12.8 terabits per second (Tb/s) while maintaining a compact footprint.

The USFP offers approximately 1.3 times the power efficiency of its 200Gb/s counterparts, which can reduce energy costs for businesses. Gilad Shainer, Senior Vice President at NVIDIA, stated that building large AI factories starts with rethinking connections. Bill Gartner, Senior Vice President at Cisco, noted that scaling to 400Gb/s per lane required more than incremental design extensions.

The partnership aims to create a supportive hardware ecosystem, involving companies like TE Connectivity and Amphenol. While the module simplifies maintenance and reliability, businesses must evaluate their current infrastructure to avoid bottlenecks during integration. The technology is positioned to help small businesses scale AI operations without overhauling existing infrastructure.

## Key points

- USFP module supports 400 gigabits per second (Gb/s) per lane speeds.
- Technology achieves 12.8 terabits per second (Tb/s) overall capacity.
- USFP offers approximately 1.3 times the power efficiency of 200Gb/s modules.

## Why it matters

The USFP module enables higher bandwidth and efficiency for AI data centers, allowing businesses to scale AI operations without extensive infrastructure overhauls and reducing power consumption.

## Sources

1. [Cisco and NVIDIA Unveil High-Density USFP Module to Elevate AI Factory Networks](https://smallbiztrends.com/cisco-and-nvidia-unveil-high-density-usfp-module-to-elevate-ai-factory-networks) (Small Business Trends, 2026-10-24)

Part of the developing story: [AI Data Center Transceiver Race](https://digestai.news/thread/nvidia-and-cisco-launch-400gb-s-usfp-transceiver-for-ai-data-centers) (2 stories)

## Cite

Digest AI, "Cisco and NVIDIA unveil USFP module for AI factory networks", 24 October 2026, https://digestai.news/story/cisco-and-nvidia-unveil-usfp-module-for-ai-factory-networks

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