Fiber infrastructure and services provider Segra has launched the Optical Express Core network using the 800G capabilities of Ciena’s (NYSE: CIEN) 800G WaveLogic 5 Extreme coherent optical engine. The backbone fiber network offers connections to such Southeast U.S. locations as Atlanta, GA, Ashburn, VA, and Raleigh, Greensboro, and Charlotte, NC.
The Optical Express Core will provide Segra with a long-haul/core DWDM tier connection capability between key markets in its footprint while enabling the company to quickly adapt to customer demands and offer connectivity across any path in the fiber network. The network also is designed for reduced hand-offs, low latency, 100G/200G/400G/600G and 800G service support, and sub-rate “packing” of bandwidth with OTN switching to more effectively use network channels.
To enable these capabilities, Segra is deploying Ciena’s WaveLogic 5 Extreme transponders and 6500 flexible-grid colorless, directionless, contentionless (CDC) open line system, managed by Ciena’s Manage, Control and Plan (MCP) domain controller. “Teaming up with Ciena to build our new Express Optical Core prepares our network for the next phase of capabilities that our customers demand,” said Jason Campbell, COO at Segra. “Express Optical Core will revitalize the current optical transport networks for increased stability and scalability that meet the needs of our business and carrier customers and the expected 5G, edge computing services, and applications.”
“Segra’s expansive fiber infrastructure network, along with our networking systems and software is the winning combination to upgrade these fiber network connections from Virginia to North Carolina. Our collaboration with Segra to build the new Optical Express Core network will help double the data throughput per wavelength, along with reduction in overall power, space, and system complexity,” added Bruce Hembree, vice president and general manager at Ciena.
Segra was formed via the combination of Lumos Networks and Spirit Communications in early 2019 (see "Segra new name for Lumos Networks, Spirit Communications combination").
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