Investment Rating - The report maintains a "Buy" rating for key companies in the optical communication sector, particularly focusing on the isolation component in optical modules [4][10]. Core Insights - The global optical module industry is rapidly upgrading to 800G/1.6T due to AI computing demand, with optical isolators becoming a critical bottleneck due to a global shortage of Faraday rotators [1][19]. - The production of Faraday rotators is highly concentrated and faces significant technical barriers, leading to supply constraints that impact the expansion of optical module capacity [21][24]. - The demand for optical isolators is expected to surge as the usage of optical modules increases, particularly in high-speed applications, which will drive both the quantity and value of isolators [6][22]. Summary by Sections Section: Optical Isolators as Key Components - Optical isolators function as essential passive components in optical communication systems, allowing light to transmit in one direction while blocking reverse reflections, thus protecting laser sources and enhancing system reliability [2][20]. - The core technology of optical isolators relies on the Faraday effect, with the Faraday rotator being a critical component that is currently in short supply globally [21][23]. Section: Supply Chain Challenges - The production of Faraday rotators is dominated by a few companies in the US and Japan, creating a monopolistic supply chain that poses risks for the optical isolator market [23][24]. - Domestic companies are striving to achieve self-sufficiency in the production of Faraday rotators, but the overall localization rate remains low, indicating a significant opportunity for growth in this area [23][24]. Section: Market Demand and Growth Potential - The transition of optical modules to higher capacities (800G/1.6T) is expected to increase the demand for optical isolators significantly, with each module requiring multiple isolators depending on the number of channels [6][22]. - The report highlights that the mismatch between the rapid increase in demand for isolators and the slow expansion of production capacity will lead to price increases and heightened value for isolators in the market [6][22]. Section: Recommended Companies - The report recommends focusing on leading companies in the optical communication sector, such as Zhongji Xuchuang, Xinyi Sheng, and Tianfu Communication, which are well-positioned to benefit from the growing demand for optical isolators [7][8][24].
隔离器:光模块“卡脖子”环节