Layout arrangements for pluggable optics in networking equipment to achieve short electrical signal traces

A method comprising:

• installing an integrated circuit on a printed circuit board;
• positioning a plurality of optical transceiver modules on the printed circuit board around three or more sides of the integrated circuit, wherein the plurality of optical transceiver modules are to be in operable communication with the integrated circuit;
• and
• installing a faceplate that has multiple face portions that expose receptacles for the plurality of optical transceiver modules around the integrated circuit.

A device comprising:

• an integrated circuit that is installed on a printed circuit board;
• a plurality of optical transceiver modules positioned on the printed circuit board around three or more sides of the integrated circuit, wherein the plurality of optical transceiver modules are in operable communication with the integrated circuit;
• and
• a non-linear faceplate installed around outer edges of the plurality of optical transceiver modules around the integrated circuit, wherein the non-linear faceplate includes openings for receptacles for the plurality of optical transceiver modules.