Deutsche Telekom tests Lucent's 40-Gigabit optical technology
Deutsche Telekom has successfully tested Lucent Technologies' (NYSE: LU) 40-gigabits per second optical networking technology over a distance of 72 miles (116 kilometers). The results of the 40G test, which achieved transmission speeds four times faster than currently available systems, showed that Lucent's next-generation technology can be used in existing optical networks and can work over long distances.
Lucent's 40G system is based on time division multiplexing technology (OC-768/STM-256), which transmits voice, video and data, using a single laser over a single wavelength of light.
Designed by Lucent's Bell Labs, the 40G system operates over a variety of fiber types and enables carriers to increase network speed and maximize fiber use, while also reducing cost, equipment and space requirements. For instance, the 40G technology would save space in telecommunications centers because one system offers the same capacity as four 10G systems. In addition, the system requires only a quarter of the optical fibers needed for four 10G systems. Both of these aspects would reduce per-bit transmission costs.
In the Deutsche Telekom test, the 40G system was tested on standard single-mode fiber, which is the most common form of installed fiber around the world. Besides producing superb transmission quality, the system itself also operated error-free.
As bandwidth requirements increase, operators could achieve even greater data transmission rates if 40G technology were used with a dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) system. DWDM technology, pioneered by Bell Labs scientists, increases network capacity by transmitting multiple wavelengths -- or colors -- of light across a single fiber, with each wavelength carrying a distinct stream of information. As a result, a combined DWDM/40G system could produce a transmission capacity in the multi-terabit range per optical fiber.
About Lucent Technologies:
Lucent Technologies designs and delivers systems, software and services for next-generation communications networks for service providers and enterprises. For more information, visit www.lucent.com.