HFR Networks, a specialist in intelligent xHaul RAN transport and edge access systems, and Fujitsu Network Communications have partnered to launch a 25G smart tunable optics platform as part of HFR's flexiHaul portfolio of solutions. Also available supporting 10G, the companies says the new smart tunable optics platform stands to reduce network deployment and operational costs while simultaneously supporting 4G LTE, 5G, and Ethernet services.
The new self-tuning optical transceivers enable 5G applications, automate fast service turn-up, and include full operational visibility on xHaul transport links for proactive management of active or passive remote sites. Billed as the industry’s first 25G self-tuning optical transceiver available for 5G xHaul deployments, HFR Networks’ Smart Tunable Optics technology seamlessly integrates into its flagship flexiHaul transponder based and Time Sensitive Networking (TSN) portfolios.
“As a strategic partner of Fujitsu, HFR Networks continues to provide the innovation required by our customers,” said Paul Havala, VP of Global Planning, Fujitsu Network Communications. “Smart Tunable Optics deliver the increased flexibility and impressive total cost of ownership benefits that operators demand as they continue to move towards open networks while simultaneously increasing network capacity across mixed generations of radio technologies and vendors.”
As an HFR Networks’ partner, Fujitsu offers the Smart Tunable Optics system as part of its Smart xHaul transport solution. Fujitsu notes that HFR Networks’ platforms deliver service providers significant operational benefits with the ability to work seamlessly across cellular generations and vendors without having to source multiple fixed optics or proprietary solutions from any specific radio or edge equipment supplier.
“HFR Networks is thrilled to add another industry first to its list of accomplishments,” concluded Paul Crann, CEO, HFR Networks. “By enabling converged 4G/5G services across RAN vendors and overcoming constraints due to limited fiber, we are able to simplify operations while reducing the remote site space and power requirements. HFR Networks empowers operators in their continued efforts to get to market quickly with new 5G services using high-performance, open and cost-effective solutions.”
The companies note the new smart tunable optical transceivers automatically self-tune to the correct wavelength without intervention by the host system or a field technician. Combined with HFR Networks’ flexiHaul Element Management System, the smart tunable optics create a remote virtualized shelf to provide full network operations, administration and maintenance (OA&M) visibility and management of important access transport links.
Thus created, the integrated service channel provides a demarcation point between the transport and radio, remote radio head (RRH) or radio unit (RU) connectivity verification, traffic testing, and a built-in PRBS pattern generator to test link quality and transceiver operation. These capabilities dramatically simplify operations to ensure rapid system turn ups, higher performance, and SLA compliance while reducing the total cost of ownership over the life of the network.
As noted by the partners:
With 5G technology delivering greater peak capacity and higher bandwidth speeds with much lower latency, it’s no surprise that an evolved, next-generation xHaul architecture is required to support increased performance. 5G fronthaul is driving 25G transport as an essential requirement, including the ability to combine existing 10G services across a variety of equipment and technologies from different RAN suppliers. Intelligent self-tuning optics enable network operators to maximize valuable fiber capacity while saving on space and power at remote sites by using only passive components. This is critical for operators around the world as they continue deploying additional LTE capacity in parallel with quickly ramping new 5G services.
For more information, visit www.hfrnetworks.com and www.fujitsu.com.