Molex unveils VersaBeam Mini 16-fiber optical connector for AI data centers

Molex has introduced VersaBeam Mini, a 16-fiber expanded-beam optical connector for AI and hyperscale data centers. It packs 16 fibers into a 3.5 x 9mm footprint with three times the density of VersaBeam 16, supporting up to 3,456 fibers in a 1RU panel. Customer sampling starts in Q4 2026, with volume production in the first half of 2027.

• 16 fibers in a 3.5 x 9mm footprint, up to 3,456 fibers per 1RU panel
• Three times the density of VersaBeam 16, ninefold smaller blast radius
• Optional mass insertion engages up to nine connectors, or 144 fibers, in one push
• Sampling in Q4 2026, volume production in the first half of 2027