ECOC 2026: Vector Photonics to Discuss How PCSEL Optical Comms Technology Can Solve AI Data Centre Bottlenecks

Vector Photonics, a Scottish scale-up which is pioneering the use of photonic crystal surface emitting lasers (PCSELs) in secure communications, is exhibiting at ECOC 2026, the European Conference on Optical Communication in Malaga, Spain, September 20-24.The company will discuss how its proven PCSEL laser technology can eliminate communications bottlenecks in AI data centres which are threatening to restrict performance.

“Optical interconnect performance will determine the future of AI system scaling, making the laser a critical component. Without a new laser platform, AI networking will become the critical bottleneck. PCSELs outperform other lasers when it comes to brightness, beam quality, packaging, testing, and scalability, and are therefore well-positioned as the optical communications technology of choice for AI and data centres,” said Dr Richard Taylor , CEO, Vector Photonics.

Compared to other laser architectures including VCSELs and DFBs, PCSELs can possess key advantages to scalability, modulation, interconnect reach, and channel scaling, allowing them to overcome challenges of the incumbent technology. PCSELs create a single platform that simplifies supply chains and gives data centre operators a more efficient and scalable solution as demand for data continues to grow.

PCSELs are also an enabling technology for other growth sectors such as FSOC and LiDAR. Earlier this year, Vector Photonics became the first company to demonstrate free-space optical communications using PCSELs outside of the lab. The company is now positioning to scale-up its technology for industrial and commercial deployment.