AT&T says it has completed its previously announced field test of single-wavelength 400 Gigabit Ethernet (400GbE) across its production network. The trial used metro open optical systems from the OpenROADM project (see "AT&T field tests Open ROADM technology") as well as open-source controller technology.
Ciena (NYSE:CIEN) supplied the open optical systems, AT&T said. Other optical transport systems vendors active in previous AT&T OpenROADM trials include Fujitsu Network Communications and Nokia. The service provider says use of the OpenROADM technology, open-source controller, and what it called "open-sourced white boxes" are emblematic of its desire to create an open, software-centric network. Such an infrastructure will help control costs and create interoperability among foundational network hardware elements, AT&T believes (see "AT&T: Operators should take more responsibility for their network technology").
The field test was the last phase of a multi-phase trial (see "AT&T completes 400GbE first phase trial, ready for OpenROADM phase"). The trial positions AT&T to add 400GbE capabilities to its network backbones. "Introducing 400GbE is a natural next step. Customer demands have shifted to faster speeds, more video-centric content and cloud integration," said Roman Pacewicz, chief product officer, AT&T Business. "We consistently provide top-quality services to businesses and are proud to pave the way for this industry innovation."
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