CESNET tests 400G optical transmission with Alcatel-Lucent

CESNET, a national research and education network (NREN) infrastructure provider in the Czech Republic, has completed a trial of 400-Gbps optical transmission over its current fiber-optic network infrastructure. Alcatel-Lucent (Euronext Paris and NYSE: ALU) supplied the necessary optical transport equipment, the 1830 Photonic Service Switch (PSS) together with the 400G Photonic Service Engine (PSE).

The CESNET NREN network connects all of the Czech Republic's major cities to serve organizations involved in research and development, science, education, and healthcare. CESNET researchers have begun to investigate ways to offer services with increased reliability and speed. The use of 400G technology will enable CESNET to transmit increased data volumes over longer distances. Bandwidth demands on the network grow by approximately 30% each year, Alcatel-Lucent says.

Alcatel-Lucent first announced 400G capabilities in 2012 (see "Alcatel-Lucent makes 400-Gbps play"). It has subsequently participated in a number of 400G field trials with a variety of operators, including Nextgen, SaskTel, Shaw Communications, Telefonica Espana, and Vodafone. It has at least one 400G deployment (see "Orange, Alcatel-Lucent provide live 400G link to RENATER").

For more information on high-speed transmission systems and suppliers, visit the Lightwave Buyer's Guide.