Pushing the envelope on data center networking, NetApp has come out with an industry-first optical SAS implementation that aims to simplify infrastructure management for users of its disk-based storage solutions and synchronous mirroring software.

The protocol supports multi-mode and single-mode fiber cables up to 150 and 500 meters in length while retaining full compatibility with active copper-based solutions.  According to NetApp product executives Zev Rubenstein and Vivek Kohli, it achieves this by utilizing standard QSFP connectors and homegrown technology to convert electrical signals into optical signals.

Rubenstein and Kohli say that the implementation enables data centers to arrange racks with less concern for distance limitations, a major time saver that eliminates the need to reserve space for future upgrades. In campus range of NetApp’s protocol enables users to deploy NetApp MetroCluster without investing in additional hardware.

“NetApp optical SAS cabling lets you create a ‘zero-footprint’ MetroCluster configuration that spans up to 500M using pre-existing optical infrastructure without the need for SAS to Fibre Channel bridges that add complexity and expense and consume valuable rack space, power and cooling,” the execs wrote in a Tuesday blog entry.

Earlier this week, analytics specialist Guavus revealed that it has appointed Manish Goel, the former executive vice president of product operations at NetApp, as its CEO. Goel is stepping into the shoes of founder Anukool Lakhina, who established the company in 2006 to help network operators leverage their data to optimize capacity and create new revenue streams.

A few weeks earlier, NetApp unveiled a plugin for Oracle Database 12c that lets customers create snapshots of their relational database with its SnapClone software. The extension was announced in conjunction with the addition of support for Enterprise Manager 12c, which can now be used to monitor ONTAP deployments.