Crosstown Fiber positions near-net fiber network to support Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park
Crosstown Fiber, a fiber infrastructure developer that designs fiber networks and conduit systems, has established near-net fiber infrastructure positioned to support the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP).
Being a dedicated research and development hub for quantum computing and advanced microelectronics, IQMP will require secure, high-performance connectivity to supports tenants' data-intensive demands.
If anything, this build illustrates the key role fiber will play in supporting the emerging quantum computing trend.
“Reliable fiber connectivity is fundamental to the success of organizations working in quantum computing and microelectronics,” said Mike Underdown, CEO of Crosstown Fiber.
Focus on flexibility
Crosstown Fiber’s existing network provides immediate access to the fiber solutions necessary for the park’s research, development, and commercialization efforts.
The company’s underground, redundant ring design enhances reliability and security, enabling seamless data movement between research institutions, government agencies, and commercial enterprises.
As IQMP develops, this fiber backbone can support the vast data requirements of quantum-scale computing and advanced microelectronics.
Data center opportunities
Besides serving as a fiber source for quantum computing, the service provider aligns with Chicago’s data center market.
Earlier this year, the service provider completed new fiber routes connecting to key data centers across the Chicago metro area.
The company’s underground network routes utilize a redundant ring structure, providing seamless, secure, and cost-effective connectivity for advanced applications like AI and ML.
These data center connections are strategically positioned to offer enhanced network capabilities and are tailored to meet the needs of diverse clients, including hyperscale data centers, enterprises, wholesalers, municipal/government entities, and educational institutions.
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About the Author
Sean BuckleySean Buckley
Sean is the Editor-in-Chief of Lightwave. He establishes and executes Lightwave's editorial strategy across its website, email newsletters, events, and other information products. Before coming to Lightwave in July 2023, he served as editor of Broadband Communities. Earlier, he served as senior editor of FierceTelecom and the editor of the former Telecommunications Magazine. He got his start in the optical industry in 1998 when he became the editor of enterprise and optical networks at Information Gatekeepers. He has a BA in English from the University of Massachusetts, Boston, and lives in Dracut, Mass, with his wife, two sons, and his cat, Dove.
