ENHANCEMENTS TO FITEL® FUSION SPLICER LINE FROM OFS
OFS, a leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of innovative fiber optic network products, has announced a number of product enhancements to its line of FITEL® hand-held fusion splicers.
The upgrades, which include a built-in battery recharger, a selectable display layout, and more user-friendly LCD monitors, further enhance the performance of the company’s S123 Clad Alignment Splicer, the S153 Active Alignment Splicer, and the S178 Core Alignment Splicer.
The built-in battery recharger eliminates the need for carrying a separate external charger into the field. The recharger operates during fusion splicing, with a red icon indicating recharging status.
The selectable display layout enables users to select their preferred display style for viewing the fiber image during the splice operation. Users can choose from a conventional layout, a side-by-side display, and a top-to-bottom comparison, all at the flip of a software switch.
LCD monitors on the FITEL machines have been re-designed to provide even greater visibility while the windshield is open. The opening angle of the windshield has been slightly narrowed with no change to accessibility to the splice chamber.
These product enhancements continue OFS’ tradition as a market leader in the development of ruggedized high-performance splicers for FTTH applications. OFS was first to market with this line of splicers in 2010, and the company believes these product upgrades help enable it to maintain its position as a leading supplier of reliable and intuitive machines for these applications.
The enhancements are the result of consultations with end users, who provided feedback on performance of the machines under real-world conditions, said Linda Dembowski, general manager of the company’s Optical Connectivity Solutions business.
“There is no better source for product improvements than the product’s users,” Dembowski said. “OFS is dedicated to continuous improvement of our splicers based on proven, real-world experience.”
These machines are part of OFS’ full range of rugged hand-held fusion splicers offering speed, durability, and low loss in small, lightweight hand-held design. The machines are designed to endure harsh operating conditions by improving shock/impact resistance with rubber pads embedded on four corners of the splicer body. They also are water resistance-compliant to IPX2 and dust resistance-compliant to IP5X.
About OFS OFS is a world-leading designer, manufacturer and provider of optical fiber, optical fiber cable, connectivity, FTTX and specialty photonics solutions. Our marketing, sales, manufacturing and research teams provide forward-looking, innovative products and solutions in areas including Telecommunications, Medicine, Industrial Automation, Sensing, Government, Aerospace and Defense applications. We provide reliable, cost effective optical solutions to enable our customers to meet the needs of today’s and tomorrow’s digital and energy consumers and businesses.
OFS’ corporate lineage dates back to 1876 and includes technology powerhouses such as AT&T and Lucent Technologies. Today, OFS is owned by Furukawa Electric, a multi-billion dollar global leader in optical communications.
Headquartered in Norcross (near Atlanta) Georgia, U.S., OFS is a global provider with facilities in China, Denmark, Germany, Russia, and the United States.
For more information, please visit www.ofsoptics.com.
Source Link: http://www.ofsoptics.com/press_room/view_press_release.php?txtID=343
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Resonator Fiber Optic Gyroscope (RFOG)
Patent Description - A resonator fiber optic gyroscope (RFOG) is disclosed that reduces rotation rate error instability. In one embodiment, the RFOG comprises a resonator optical ring cavity, a first light source in optical communication with the ring cavity and configured to generate a clockwise optical signal, and a second light source in optical communication with the ring cavity and configured to generate a counter-clockwise optical signal.
The RFOG also includes a first optical component in optical communication with the first light source and the ring cavity. The first optical component is configured to prevent the clockwise optical signal from being back-reflected to the first light source. A second optical component is in optical communication with the second light source and the ring cavity.
See Source Link for complete detail: http://www.google.com/patents/US20120050745
The RFOG also includes a first optical component in optical communication with the first light source and the ring cavity. The first optical component is configured to prevent the clockwise optical signal from being back-reflected to the first light source. A second optical component is in optical communication with the second light source and the ring cavity.
See Source Link for complete detail: http://www.google.com/patents/US20120050745
Furukawa - Multi-Core EDFA (Optical Amplifier)
Furukawa Electric Develops Optical Amplifiers for Multi-Core Fibers to Support High Capacity Optical Communications
~ Substantial Energy Savings Achieved by using Collective Excitation to Amplify Signals in Seven-Core Optical Fibers ~
Photograph showing a cross-section of an MCF
~ Substantial Energy Savings Achieved by using Collective Excitation to Amplify Signals in Seven-Core Optical Fibers ~
September 20, 2012
Furukawa Electric has developed a multi-core erbium-doped fiber amplifier (MC-EDFA)(Note 1) for use with multi-core optical fibers (MCF)(Note 2) that allow seven optical signals to be input simultaneously. We have also achieved substantial energy-savings for optical amplifiers by developing a collective excitation MC-EDFA using our amplifier technologies and connection mechanisms for optical fibers.
Some of this research has been conducted as part of the Commissioned Research for Advanced Telecommunications and Broadcasting Research and Development sponsored by the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, specifically the Research and Development of Innovative Optical Fiber Technologies (2010 to 2012) program and Research and the Development of Innovative Optical Telecommunications Infrastructure (2011 to 2015) program.
Research and development relating to multi-core fibers has been conducted jointly with Tohoku University (Nakazawa Laboratory), while research and development relating to MC-EDFAs has been conducted jointly with Tohoku University (Nakazawa Laboratory) and Tohoku Gakuin University (Matsuura Laboratory), and research and development relating to the multi-core fiber connection technologies used within the MC-EDFA has been conducted jointly with the Chiba Institute of Technology (Nagase Laboratory).
Some of this research has been conducted as part of the Commissioned Research for Advanced Telecommunications and Broadcasting Research and Development sponsored by the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, specifically the Research and Development of Innovative Optical Fiber Technologies (2010 to 2012) program and Research and the Development of Innovative Optical Telecommunications Infrastructure (2011 to 2015) program.
Research and development relating to multi-core fibers has been conducted jointly with Tohoku University (Nakazawa Laboratory), while research and development relating to MC-EDFAs has been conducted jointly with Tohoku University (Nakazawa Laboratory) and Tohoku Gakuin University (Matsuura Laboratory), and research and development relating to the multi-core fiber connection technologies used within the MC-EDFA has been conducted jointly with the Chiba Institute of Technology (Nagase Laboratory).
Background
The volume of telecommunications data continues to increase all around the world, as the result of the use of smartphones and other factors, and there are concerns that at this rate the number of devices at relay stations will balloon, as well the amount of electricity consumed. Furukawa Electric has developed a new type of optical fiber(Note 1) that enables multiplexing by having seven paths (cores) inside a single fiber, in order to make this kind of high-capacity optical communication possible. Development of optical amplifiers was essential in order to achieve long distance transmissions using this optical fiber.
Results announced
Furukawa Electric has used its optical fiber and amplifier technologies to develop two types of amplifiers: a seven-core EDFA with good regulation properties where each core is excited individually, as well as an MC-EDFA where all cores are excited collectively. The collective excitation MC-EDFA in particular enables substantial energy savings because, unlike traditional amplifiers, it does not require a separate laser for each individual core.
The seven-core individual excitation amplifier inputs the signal beams and excitation beams into an MC-EDF via a fiber bundle fanout (FDF)(Note 3). The behavior of the MC-EDFA has been verified in transmission tests conducted jointly by KDDI R&D Laboratories (hereinafter "KDDI Labs") and NEC Corporation (hereinafter "NEC") using a configuration where 40 waves of 128 Gbps were sent along a 6160 kilometer MCF transmission route. In these demonstrations, the MC-EDFA achieved a world record 177 petabits-per-second.kilometers, a transmission capacity index expressed as the communication capacity multiplied by the transmission distance.
For the collective excitation amplifier, a spaced coupling system was used to input the signal beams and the excitation beam into an MC-EDFA. At present, performance has been verified for the amplification of up to two cores. We have confirmed that there is almost no increase in power consumption even as the number of cores increases, and that the efficiency of electricity usage improves as the number of cores increases.
Example configuration for the item developed
Future prospects
Furukawa Electric will carry out fundamental research into areas such as lowering power consumption and increasing the number of cores, in conjunction with initiatives directed at developing practical applications for these technologies, with a view to commercialization after 2020, by which time the volume of telecommunications data is expected to come under pressure.
Of this research, we will present reports about the two types of MC-EDFA at the European Conference on Optical Communication (ECOC) to be held between September 16 and September 20 in Amsterdam in the Netherlands. In addition, we will also present a report at the ECOC Post Deadline Paper Session on the results of the transmission tests that were conducted together with KDDI Labs and NEC.
Notes
(Note 1)Multi-Core Erbium-Doped Fiber Amplifier (MC-EDFA):
An MC-EDFA is a type of EDFA(Note 4) that uses multi-core erbium-doped fibers (MC-EDF), which are optical fibers that contain multiple erbium-doped cores. Multiple optical signals can be amplified using a single MC-EDF, thereby making efficient amplification possible.Back to Main Content
An MC-EDFA is a type of EDFA(Note 4) that uses multi-core erbium-doped fibers (MC-EDF), which are optical fibers that contain multiple erbium-doped cores. Multiple optical signals can be amplified using a single MC-EDF, thereby making efficient amplification possible.Back to Main Content
(note 2)Multi-Core Fiber (MCF):
A multi-core fiber is an optical fiber that has multiple paths (cores) for signals. Currently seven-core MCFs are the most prevalent, but there are also reports of MCFs with as many as 19 cores. Because each fiber has multiple cores, there are concerns about interference between cores, but we have confirmed that interference can be constrained by maintaining an optimal distance between cores.Back to Main Content
A multi-core fiber is an optical fiber that has multiple paths (cores) for signals. Currently seven-core MCFs are the most prevalent, but there are also reports of MCFs with as many as 19 cores. Because each fiber has multiple cores, there are concerns about interference between cores, but we have confirmed that interference can be constrained by maintaining an optimal distance between cores.Back to Main Content
Photograph showing a cross-section of an MCF
(note 3)Fiber Bundle Fanout (FBF):
An FBF is an optical component that enables all of the cores of an MCF to be connected, by bundling optical fibers that are finer than a normal optical fiber. Using FBFs enables MCFs to be connected to all kinds of optical components. Another feature of FBFs is that they result in less coupling loss than other coupling methods, and there is little reflection, which can be source of interference.Back to Main Content
An FBF is an optical component that enables all of the cores of an MCF to be connected, by bundling optical fibers that are finer than a normal optical fiber. Using FBFs enables MCFs to be connected to all kinds of optical components. Another feature of FBFs is that they result in less coupling loss than other coupling methods, and there is little reflection, which can be source of interference.Back to Main Content
(Note 4)Erbium-Doped Fiber Amplifier (EDFA):
An EDFA is an optical amplifier that uses an erbium-doped fiber (EDF) which has been doped with the rare earth element erbium (Er) into an optical fiber. A significant feature of EDFAs is that they have high efficiency with low noise, because by exciting the erbium ion in the EDF with an excitation beam the signal can be amplified without having to convert it to an electrical signal.Back to Main Content
An EDFA is an optical amplifier that uses an erbium-doped fiber (EDF) which has been doped with the rare earth element erbium (Er) into an optical fiber. A significant feature of EDFAs is that they have high efficiency with low noise, because by exciting the erbium ion in the EDF with an excitation beam the signal can be amplified without having to convert it to an electrical signal.Back to Main Content
Fujtsu - In-Service Optical Network Resources
Fujitsu Laboratories of America, Inc.
Fujitsu Limited
Fujitsu Develops World's First Technology to Increase Efficiency of In-Service Optical Network Resources
Enables 40% improvement in transmission capacity, accelerates launch of new optical circuits, and cuts energy consumption by eliminating unnecessary network devices
Kawasaki, Japan, Sunnyvale, CA, and Tokyo, September 19, 2012 — Fujitsu Laboratories Limited, Fujitsu Laboratories of America, Inc. and Fujitsu Limited announced the development of the world's first technology for future long-haul and metropolitan optical networks that can dynamically alter the architecture of optical network resources and enhance utilization efficiency without disrupting service.
Using the new technology, optical network architecture can be flexibly altered as needed, and given the improvement in the utilization efficiency of network resources, it is possible to accelerate bringing online new optical circuits while reducing power consumption by eliminating unnecessary network devices.
The digital signal processing LSI employed to test the effectiveness of the new technology was developed as part of Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC)'s project for "R&D on Ultra-High-Speed Optical Transmission Technology."
Background
It seems like every day there are ongoing changes in the ways in which networks are employed, including a variety of applications provided through cloud services, which have expanded primarily thanks to large-scale data centers, and high-speed mobile devices as represented by smartphones, as well as sensor networks and other machine-to-machine (M2M) communications. At the same time, for the core networks supporting these applications, optical fiber network technology has begun to enable the implementation of 100 Gbps/channel-class systems, and in the future, transmission systems achieving greater than 400 Gbps are expected to be available.
In addition to expanding the capacity of such transmission systems, there is a need to offer end-users a variety of flexible network capabilities without having to increase the power consumed by communications nodes and add excess equipment. Such capabilities include offering high-capacity communications routes for on-demand services, the rapid delivery of alternative routes during major natural disasters, and optimal route selection that enables dynamic route reallocation.
1. Limitations to the usable spectrum and communications routes of optical networks
Due to the limitations of optical components and electronic components used inside current optical switch nodes and optical transceivers, it is not possible to freely configure the optical wavelengths, bandwidth, modulation schemes and communications routes employed for communications. As a result, to bring new optical circuits into operation, cables have to be manually rerouted and new equipment deployed.
2. Diminished optical wavelength utilization efficiency as a result of in-service adjustments to communications routes
As a result of constantly adjusting optical spectrum routes while a network is in use, fragmentation can occur in the assignment of optical signals that were initially allocated to optimize network utilization efficiency. This spectrum fragmentation makes it impossible to allocate optical fiber communications routes and bandwidth, a process that is necessary to launch new optical circuits, thereby diminishing the utilization efficiency of transmission equipment.
To address these challenges, Fujitsu has developed technology that can dynamically adjust the architecture of optical network resources and increase utilization efficiency without disrupting service.
1. Flexible optical node (optical transceivers, optical switches) capable of software-side adjustments to network architecture
Using digital signal processing technology, Fujitsu developed a "universal transceiver" architecture that makes it possible to make software-side adjustments to the transmission schemes of optical transceivers. To accommodate long-haul users, the nodes can be configured to a relatively wide-band transmission scheme employing a highly noise-tolerant modulation scheme that is suitable for long-haul transmissions. For short-haul users, the nodes can be configured to a transmission scheme that is suitable for short-haul transmissions and features high frequency utilization efficiency, but is not very noise tolerant.
With respect to optical switch nodes, communications bandwidth can be adjusted, and through optical switch technology that enables the selection of multiple communications routes, it is possible to perform software-side configuration of communications routes. Combining these routes enables a single optical switch node to be shared among multiple users, flexible configuration to meet users' needs, and realization of flexible optical nodes that can be configured (Figure 1)
2. Improved utilization efficiency of in-service spectrum resources through spectrum defragmentation
Fujitsu has developed a network control mechanism that employs a defragmentation algorithm for securing usable bandwidth allocable for high-volume data by consolidating fragmented spectrum into an uninterrupted spectrum continuum. Using a flexible optical node device architecture, fragmented optical spectrum resources are continuously consolidated into a wavelength band of a size that is allocable for 400 Gbps-class wide-band signal, all while the network remains in service. By channeling the resulting wavelength band into properly configured optical signals, it is possible to improve the utilization efficiency of spectrum resources.
Fujitsu will work to standardize 400 Gbps-class next-generation interfaces while developing hardware and pursuing R&D on network management systems in aiming to commercialize the new technology.
Glossary and Notes
Fujitsu Limited
Fujitsu Develops World's First Technology to Increase Efficiency of In-Service Optical Network Resources
Enables 40% improvement in transmission capacity, accelerates launch of new optical circuits, and cuts energy consumption by eliminating unnecessary network devices
Kawasaki, Japan, Sunnyvale, CA, and Tokyo, September 19, 2012 — Fujitsu Laboratories Limited, Fujitsu Laboratories of America, Inc. and Fujitsu Limited announced the development of the world's first technology for future long-haul and metropolitan optical networks that can dynamically alter the architecture of optical network resources and enhance utilization efficiency without disrupting service.
As a result of the spread of datacenter-centric cloud services, smartphones and other technologies in recent years, a wide variety of network-enabled services are now being offered. At the same time, for the core networks supporting these services, it is important to be able to shorten the time required to bring online new optical circuits that deliver on-demand services, as well as to increase transmission capacity while reducing the energy consumption of network devices. In light of this, Fujitsu has developed two technologies: "flexible optical node" technology that overcomes limitations in terms of optical signal wavelength, modulation scheme and routes; and "spectrum defragmentation(1) technology," which leverages flexible optical nodes to increase the utilization efficiency of in-service optical network resources. This, in turn, makes it possible to improve optical network transmission capacity by up to 40%.
The digital signal processing LSI employed to test the effectiveness of the new technology was developed as part of Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC)'s project for "R&D on Ultra-High-Speed Optical Transmission Technology."
Background
It seems like every day there are ongoing changes in the ways in which networks are employed, including a variety of applications provided through cloud services, which have expanded primarily thanks to large-scale data centers, and high-speed mobile devices as represented by smartphones, as well as sensor networks and other machine-to-machine (M2M) communications. At the same time, for the core networks supporting these applications, optical fiber network technology has begun to enable the implementation of 100 Gbps/channel-class systems, and in the future, transmission systems achieving greater than 400 Gbps are expected to be available.
In addition to expanding the capacity of such transmission systems, there is a need to offer end-users a variety of flexible network capabilities without having to increase the power consumed by communications nodes and add excess equipment. Such capabilities include offering high-capacity communications routes for on-demand services, the rapid delivery of alternative routes during major natural disasters, and optimal route selection that enables dynamic route reallocation.
Technological Challenges
The following challenges are evident in bringing about the next generation of high-capacity and flexible optical networks.1. Limitations to the usable spectrum and communications routes of optical networks
Due to the limitations of optical components and electronic components used inside current optical switch nodes and optical transceivers, it is not possible to freely configure the optical wavelengths, bandwidth, modulation schemes and communications routes employed for communications. As a result, to bring new optical circuits into operation, cables have to be manually rerouted and new equipment deployed.
2. Diminished optical wavelength utilization efficiency as a result of in-service adjustments to communications routes
As a result of constantly adjusting optical spectrum routes while a network is in use, fragmentation can occur in the assignment of optical signals that were initially allocated to optimize network utilization efficiency. This spectrum fragmentation makes it impossible to allocate optical fiber communications routes and bandwidth, a process that is necessary to launch new optical circuits, thereby diminishing the utilization efficiency of transmission equipment.
Newly Developed Technology
1. Flexible optical node (optical transceivers, optical switches) capable of software-side adjustments to network architecture
Using digital signal processing technology, Fujitsu developed a "universal transceiver" architecture that makes it possible to make software-side adjustments to the transmission schemes of optical transceivers. To accommodate long-haul users, the nodes can be configured to a relatively wide-band transmission scheme employing a highly noise-tolerant modulation scheme that is suitable for long-haul transmissions. For short-haul users, the nodes can be configured to a transmission scheme that is suitable for short-haul transmissions and features high frequency utilization efficiency, but is not very noise tolerant.
With respect to optical switch nodes, communications bandwidth can be adjusted, and through optical switch technology that enables the selection of multiple communications routes, it is possible to perform software-side configuration of communications routes. Combining these routes enables a single optical switch node to be shared among multiple users, flexible configuration to meet users' needs, and realization of flexible optical nodes that can be configured (Figure 1)
Figure 1: Optical network using flexible optical node technology
Fujitsu has developed a network control mechanism that employs a defragmentation algorithm for securing usable bandwidth allocable for high-volume data by consolidating fragmented spectrum into an uninterrupted spectrum continuum. Using a flexible optical node device architecture, fragmented optical spectrum resources are continuously consolidated into a wavelength band of a size that is allocable for 400 Gbps-class wide-band signal, all while the network remains in service. By channeling the resulting wavelength band into properly configured optical signals, it is possible to improve the utilization efficiency of spectrum resources.
In an experimental network environment featuring four optical switch nodes, Fujitsu demonstrated—for the first time in the world—the use of defragmentation technology employing digital signal processing technology to shift a 100Gbps DP-QPSK optical signal(2) without disrupting service. By taking advantage of the signal bandwidth made available through the defragmentation process, optical network communications capacity can be improved by 40%.
Figure 2: Results of defragmentation
Results
Using the new technology, optical network architecture can be flexibly altered as needed, and given the improvement in the utilization efficiency of network resources, it is possible to shorten the time required to launch new optical circuits, while cutting power consumption by eliminating unnecessary network devices.
Future Development
Glossary and Notes
- 1 Defragmentation:
- Just like fragmented storage space on hard disks is consolidated to create larger data space, defragmentation in the case of optical networks is a process of securing usable bandwidth that can be allocated for high-volume data by consolidating fragmented spectrum into an uninterrupted spectrum continuum.
- 2 DP-QPSK Optical Signal:
- Dual-Polarization Quadrature Phase Shift Keying. The effective world standard in modulation and demodulation methods for 100 Gbps optical transmission systems.
About Fujitsu
Fujitsu is the leading Japanese information and communication technology (ICT) company offering a full range of technology products, solutions and services. Over 170,000 Fujitsu people support customers in more than 100 countries. We use our experience and the power of ICT to shape the future of society with our customers. Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 4.5 trillion yen (US$54 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2012. For more information, please see http://www.fujitsu.com.
About Fujitsu Laboratories
Founded in 1968 as a wholly owned subsidiary of Fujitsu Limited, Fujitsu Laboratories Limited is one of the premier research centers in the world. With a global network of laboratories in Japan, China, the United States and Europe, the organization conducts a wide range of basic and applied research in the areas of Next-generation Services, Computer Servers, Networks, Electronic Devices and Advanced Materials. For more information, please see: http://jp.fujitsu.com/labs/en.
About Fujitsu Laboratories of America, Inc.
Fujitsu Laboratories of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd. (Japan), focusing on research on Internet, interconnect technologies, software development and solutions for several industry verticals. Conducting research in an open environment, it contributes to the global research community and the IT industry. It is headquartered in Sunnyvale, CA.
For more information, please see: www.fla.fujitsu.com
For more information, please see: www.fla.fujitsu.com
Friday, September 28, 2012
Fiber optic particle plasmon resonance sensor based on plasmonic light scattering interrogation
Abstract
A highly sensitive fiber optic particle plasmon resonance sensor (FO-PPR) is demonstrated for label-free biochemical detection. The sensing strategy relies on interrogating the plasmonic scattering of light from gold nanoparticles on the optical fiber in response to the surrounding refractive index changes or molecular binding events. The refractive index resolution is estimated to be 3.8 × 10-5 RIU.
The limit of detection for anti-DNP antibody spiked in buffer is 1.2 × 10-9 g/ml (5.3 pM) by using the DNP-functionalized FO-PPR sensor. The image processing of simultaneously recorded plasmonic scattering photographs at different compartments of the sensor is also demonstrated. Results suggest that the compact sensor can perform multiple independent measurements simultaneously by means of monitoring the plasmonic scattering intensity via photodiodes or a CCD.
The potential of using a combination of different kinds of noble metal nanoparticles with different types of functionalized probes in multiple cascaded detection windows on a single fiber to become an inexpensive and ultrasensitive linear-array sensing platform for higher-throughput biochemical detection is provided.
Notes:
Lin, H.-Y., Huang, C.-H. and Chau, L.-K. (2012), Fiber optic particle plasmon resonance sensor based on plasmonic light scattering interrogation. Ann. Phys.. doi: 10.1002/andp.201200157
Article first published online: 24 SEP 2012
SOURCE LINK: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/andp.201200157/abstract
The limit of detection for anti-DNP antibody spiked in buffer is 1.2 × 10-9 g/ml (5.3 pM) by using the DNP-functionalized FO-PPR sensor. The image processing of simultaneously recorded plasmonic scattering photographs at different compartments of the sensor is also demonstrated. Results suggest that the compact sensor can perform multiple independent measurements simultaneously by means of monitoring the plasmonic scattering intensity via photodiodes or a CCD.
The potential of using a combination of different kinds of noble metal nanoparticles with different types of functionalized probes in multiple cascaded detection windows on a single fiber to become an inexpensive and ultrasensitive linear-array sensing platform for higher-throughput biochemical detection is provided.
Notes:
Lin, H.-Y., Huang, C.-H. and Chau, L.-K. (2012), Fiber optic particle plasmon resonance sensor based on plasmonic light scattering interrogation. Ann. Phys.. doi: 10.1002/andp.201200157
Article first published online: 24 SEP 2012
DOI: 10.1002/andp.201200157
SOURCE LINK: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/andp.201200157/abstract
Calix to Acquire Fiber Access Assets from Ericsson; Companies Sign Global Reseller Agreement
Partnership will bring Calix Unified Access systems and software to communications service providers worldwide
Calix, Inc. (NYSE:CALX) and Ericsson (NASDAQ:ERIC) signed of a definitive agreement under which Calix will acquire Ericsson's fiber access assets. The two companies also announced that they have signed a global reseller agreement, under which Calix will become Ericsson's preferred global partner for broadband access applications.
The acquisition brings together the industry's highest capacity GPON solution, deployed by major service providers worldwide, with North America's leading access portfolio. Ericsson's fiber access assets expected to be included are the Ericsson EDA 1500 GPON solution and its complementary ONT portfolio. The agreement also calls for Calix to offer employment for up to 61 U.S.-based employees of Ericsson, as well as the transition of ongoing support of the acquired products from Ericsson to Calix. The acquisition transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2012. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. After close of the transaction, Calix expects operations related to the acquired assets to be accretive to non-GAAP earnings per share.
The global reseller agreement between the two companies allows Ericsson to sell Calix Unified Access systems and software as its preferred fiber and VDSL2 access solution in 180 countries worldwide. This preferred partnership becomes effective upon the close of the acquisition and remains effective for three years.
"This partnership provides Calix, already North America's fiber access deployment leader, with an extensive new global reseller channel, while our acquisition of Ericsson's fiber access portfolio delivers powerful new complements to our industry-leading Unified Access portfolio," said Carl Russo, president and CEO of Calix. "This partnership, built on a clear alignment of corporate strategy and direction, allows Ericsson to fully leverage its strengths in wireless and end-to-end services while relying on Calix to provide innovation and expertise in fixed-line broadband access. We are excited about the opportunity to assume responsibility for development and support of Ericsson's fiber access business, and look forward to working closely with Ericsson and its broad customer base as a preferred global partner."
"We believe that this partnership will provide our existing fiber access customers with world-class support and maintenance, and an expanded portfolio of access systems and software from a leading company totally focused on access," said Jan Häglund, vice president and head of product area IP and broadband at Ericsson.
About Calix
Calix (NYSE: CALX) is a global leader in access innovation. Its Unified Access portfolio of broadband communications access systems and software enables communications service providers worldwide to be the broadband provider of choice to their subscribers. For more information, visit the Calix website at http://www.calix.com/.
About Ericsson
Ericsson is the world's leading provider of communications technology and services. We are enabling the Networked Society with efficient real-time solutions that allow us all to study, work and live our lives more freely, in sustainable societies around the world.
Our offering comprises services, software and infrastructure within Information and Communications Technology for telecom operators and other industries. Today more than 40 percent of the world's mobile traffic goes through Ericsson networks and we support customers' networks servicing more than 2.5 billion subscribers.
We operate in 180 countries and employ more than 100,000 people. Founded in 1876, Ericsson is headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden. In 2011 the company had revenues of SEK 226.9 billion (USD 35.0 billion). Ericsson is listed on NASDAQ OMX, Stockholm and NASDAQ, New York stock exchanges.
OTDR-Based Remote Test Unit for Automated FTTH Fault Management
QUEBEC CITY, CANADA, September 25, 2012 — EXFO Inc. (NASDAQ: EXFO) (TSX: EXF) announced today new additions to its Fiber Guardian product family, including the FG-750 Node iOLM, a specialized OTDR designed for in-service FTTH fiber testing, monitoring and troubleshooting. This latest EXFO innovation can test point-to-multipoint fibers, or run downstream tests from the node or central office to any passive optical network line type, providing operators with an automated, operation-oriented way of assessing the health of their FTTH networks.
The need for optical demarcation in FTTH networksOpen FTTH network and multitenant environments require establishing a clear responsibility boundary between the operator and the service provider, even at the optical fiber layer. Also, limited access to customer premises and longer commuting times in cities and urban areas put increased pressure on operating costs and the importance of reducing truck rolls. Finally, added to these aspects is this everyday challenge: efficiently testing quality and continuity between a network node, point of presence (PoP), central office or exchange site and a customer premises.
Addressing the challengeBased on EXFO’s patented Link-Aware technology, the Node intelligent Optical Link Mapper (iOLM) allows operators to monitor and validate end-to-end fiber quality from a centralized location, and throughout the lifecycle. Its ability to perform online quality control of contractual work, and to further use the same equipment for isolating and pinpointing optical-layer impairments in a more automated way is expected to significantly increase operational efficiency.
Its carrier-class hardware meets FTTx network requirements such as connection to a multiple optical test ports, use of multifiber cables (MFCs), low power consumption, small volume and scalability. In addition, EXFO is introducing cost-efficient 576-port and 720-port optical switch and test access modules allowing in-service addition of out-of-band OTDR signals to the line under test, all from the node. In terms of software, the connectivity and access to the test platform is provided through a full set of representational state transfer (REST) services (APIs) allowing easy integration by virtually any system integrator, network equipment manufacturer or tier-1 operator.
“After having launched the Ethernet One solution, which allows to deploy and assure Carrier Ethernet services more cost-effectively, we are proud to reinforce our commitment to providing our customers with productivity-boosting tools that can shorten the on-field assessment cycles and time-to-revenue,” said Étienne Gagnon, Vice-President of EXFO’s Test and Measurement Division. “When used in a support and maintenance environment, the Node iOLM allows operators to monitor and validate end-to-end fiber quality from a centralized location, and throughout the network lifecycle.”
Visit the EXFO Link for more on the FG-750 Node iOLM.
About EXFO
Listed on the NASDAQ and TSX stock exchanges, EXFO is among the leading providers of next-generation test and service assurance solutions for wireline and wireless network operators and equipment manufacturers in the global telecommunications industry. The company offers innovative solutions for the development, installation, management and maintenance of converged, IP fixed and mobile networks—from the core to the edge. Key technologies supported include 3G, 4G/LTE, IMS, Ethernet, OTN, FTTx, VDSL2, ADSL2+ and various optical technologies (accounting for an estimated 35% of the portable fiber-optic test market). EXFO has a staff of approximately 1800 people in 25 countries, supporting more than 2000 telecom customers worldwide. For more information, visit www.EXFO.com.
EXFO Brand Name
The corporate name of the company is EXFO Inc. The company requests that all media outlets and publications use the corporate name (“EXFO Inc.”) or abbreviated name (“EXFO”) in capital letters for branding purposes. EXFO would like to thank all parties in advance for their cooperation.
The need for optical demarcation in FTTH networksOpen FTTH network and multitenant environments require establishing a clear responsibility boundary between the operator and the service provider, even at the optical fiber layer. Also, limited access to customer premises and longer commuting times in cities and urban areas put increased pressure on operating costs and the importance of reducing truck rolls. Finally, added to these aspects is this everyday challenge: efficiently testing quality and continuity between a network node, point of presence (PoP), central office or exchange site and a customer premises.
Addressing the challengeBased on EXFO’s patented Link-Aware technology, the Node intelligent Optical Link Mapper (iOLM) allows operators to monitor and validate end-to-end fiber quality from a centralized location, and throughout the lifecycle. Its ability to perform online quality control of contractual work, and to further use the same equipment for isolating and pinpointing optical-layer impairments in a more automated way is expected to significantly increase operational efficiency.
Its carrier-class hardware meets FTTx network requirements such as connection to a multiple optical test ports, use of multifiber cables (MFCs), low power consumption, small volume and scalability. In addition, EXFO is introducing cost-efficient 576-port and 720-port optical switch and test access modules allowing in-service addition of out-of-band OTDR signals to the line under test, all from the node. In terms of software, the connectivity and access to the test platform is provided through a full set of representational state transfer (REST) services (APIs) allowing easy integration by virtually any system integrator, network equipment manufacturer or tier-1 operator.
“After having launched the Ethernet One solution, which allows to deploy and assure Carrier Ethernet services more cost-effectively, we are proud to reinforce our commitment to providing our customers with productivity-boosting tools that can shorten the on-field assessment cycles and time-to-revenue,” said Étienne Gagnon, Vice-President of EXFO’s Test and Measurement Division. “When used in a support and maintenance environment, the Node iOLM allows operators to monitor and validate end-to-end fiber quality from a centralized location, and throughout the network lifecycle.”
Visit the EXFO Link for more on the FG-750 Node iOLM.
About EXFO
Listed on the NASDAQ and TSX stock exchanges, EXFO is among the leading providers of next-generation test and service assurance solutions for wireline and wireless network operators and equipment manufacturers in the global telecommunications industry. The company offers innovative solutions for the development, installation, management and maintenance of converged, IP fixed and mobile networks—from the core to the edge. Key technologies supported include 3G, 4G/LTE, IMS, Ethernet, OTN, FTTx, VDSL2, ADSL2+ and various optical technologies (accounting for an estimated 35% of the portable fiber-optic test market). EXFO has a staff of approximately 1800 people in 25 countries, supporting more than 2000 telecom customers worldwide. For more information, visit www.EXFO.com.
EXFO Brand Name
The corporate name of the company is EXFO Inc. The company requests that all media outlets and publications use the corporate name (“EXFO Inc.”) or abbreviated name (“EXFO”) in capital letters for branding purposes. EXFO would like to thank all parties in advance for their cooperation.
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Photonic Switch - Venture Capital
CrossFiber Completes $13.4 Million Series D Financing
Southern Cross Venture Partners led the round, with participation from New Venture Partners, Arsenal Venture Partners and existing investors including Back Bay Management and PacifiCap. Provide Expansion Capital for Photonic Switch MakerSeptember 12, 2012, San Diego, California --CrossFiber Inc., the developer and manufacturer of breakthrough photonic switches that enable novel architectures in data centers and next-generation telco fiber optic networks, announced today the completion of the final tranche of its Series D funding, now totaling $13.4 million. The Company said that the majority of the funds have been and will continue to be used for rapid expansion of manufacturing capacity, to meet the high demand for LiteSwitch™ family of photonic switches. Southern Cross Venture Partners led the round, with participation from New Venture Partners, Arsenal Venture Partners and existing investors including Back Bay Management and PacifiCap.
"With unique technologies and products attracting tier-one customers, CrossFiber is leading the way in optical switching in data centers and telecommunications. We are delighted to be a part of CrossFiber's exciting story, and to work alongside such great domain expert investors as NVP, Arsenal, Back Bay, Trex, and PacifiCap," said Dr. Larry Marshall, Managing Director of Southern Cross. "We welcome the new investors in this rapid-growth stage of the company and thank all investors for their confidence and support," said Hus Tigli, President & CEO of CrossFiber.
About CrossFiber
CrossFiber develops and manufactures breakthrough photonic switches, based on proprietary technologies which combine 3D MEMS micro-mirrors on silicon, non-invasive beam steering (NIBS), and custom ASICs. CrossFiber's unique combination of performance and cost makes LiteSwitch™ systems the most suitable across all major applications in data centers and telco fiber optic switching. More information can be found at www.crossfiber.com.
Fiber Optic Submarine Line: 70 x 100G capacity per fiber pair
Tamares Telecom, the provider of new international communications from and to Israel, and Xtera Communications Inc. (Xtera), a leading global provider of optical networking solutions, announce that the Tamares Telecom network providing seamless connectivity from Israel to international communication hubs in Europe is now fully operational. For this innovative project, Xtera supplied its advanced, multi-purpose and field-proven Nu-Wave OptimaTM platform deployed in a Submarine Line Terminal Equipment (SLTE) configuration with 70 x 100G capacity per fiber pair. Xtera partnered with IT International Telecom (IT), a subsea network integrator, to provide Tamares Telecom with a turnkey solution including supply and installation of both transmission equipment and cable.
Tamares Telecom is a communications service provider that operates and markets communication services, paving the way for faster and more reliable internet access. The new fiber optic network, including a new submarine cable connecting Israel to Marseille and from Marseille to Frankfurt and London, is designed to provide a secure, high speed connection for data traffic moving east and west for international carriers."This region has experienced explosive growth in traffic from the local high tech boom as well as R&D centers of global giants including IBM, Microsoft, Google, Apple, Intel, and Motorola," said Amir Goldstein, Executive Vice Chairman of Tamares Telecom. "We are happy to work with Xtera & IT's cutting edge technology that enables our network to provide carriers and enterprises with confidence in the quality and security of their international connections."
Xtera’s Nu-Wave OptimaTM platform is a unique modular optical transport system designed to lower the total cost of ownership by using a common, integrated set of modules for long-haul, unrepeatered and regional repeatered submarine applications.
Being the first and only 100G equipment in the field since the second half of 2011 with soft-decision Forward Error Correction (FEC), Xtera’s Nu-Wave OptimaTM offers the industry’s most advanced 100G solution that is available for multiple optical networking applications. For terrestrial backbone networks, the Nu-Wave OptimaTM equipment delivers an unrivalled line capacity of 15 Tb/s on more than 3,000 km. For unrepeatered applications, a capacity of 34 x 100G was recently transmitted over a cable attenuation exceeding 74 dB.
“Xtera is extremely pleased to be part, once again, of a new international submarine cable system project. This is a further example of how Xtera’s advanced technologies can benefit high-capacity networks for bandwidth-intensive services,” said Jon Hopper, President and CEO of Xtera.
The proven Nu-Wave OptimaTM multi-purpose platform offers unparalleled 100G WDM performance in real network conditions based on the combination of the industry’s most powerful 100G technology and unique line equipment to face different span configurations. Some examples include:
· A N x 100G 1,350-km route including a 250-km / 60-dB span;
· The longest N x 100G all-optical link ever deployed with a reach of 2,500 km, including 24 spans, and going through 9 ROADMS; and
· 7 Tb/s per fiber pair on a 350-km / 65.5-dB unrepeatered link.
In addition to unrivalled transmission performance, the Nu-Wave OptimaTM platform achieved the following industry’s firsts:· First soft-decision FEC in the field in 2011;
· World’s widest 100G deployment (CFE Telecom’s 22,000-km backbone network in 2011); and
· First 100G repeatered subsea cable system to be put in commercial service (first quarter of 2012).
About Tamares Telecom
Tamares Telecom is a privately held service provider that operates and markets communications services based on a new internationally deployed fiber-optic network. Tamares Telecom provides seamless connectivity from Israel to international communications hubs and enhances the value it brings to its customers with innovative, fast, reliable and cost-effective solutions and services that address today’s and tomorrow’s challenges. Moreover, the company has joined forces with world-leading technology vendors and business partners. Tamares Telecom is part of Tamares Group. For more information, visit www.tamarestelecom.com.About Xtera Communications, Inc.
Xtera Communications, Inc. (Xtera) specializes in network infrastructure that delivers maximum capacity, reach and value. Providing solutions for enterprise and telecom companies, Xtera offers an extensive portfolio of optical and IP networking solutions for submarine, long-haul, regional and enterprise applications. With deployments across five continents, Xtera’s optical transport solutions help service providers expand and accelerate their market reach with new deployments and extend the life of existing network assets with cost-effective upgrades. Our IP networking solutions for WAN traffic management deliver efficient, flexible network optimization. Xtera’s innovative technologies offer exceptional quality and performance, driving customer success. For more information, visit www.xtera.com.About IT International Telecom
IT International Telecom is an innovative company proud to provide its clients with customized solutions that meet their telecommunication, power installation and maintenance requirements. IT International Telecom is ISO 9000-2001 certified and has provided network installations in more than 65 countries and counting. IT has offices in Montreal, Canada and Bridgetown, Barbados as well as marine depots in Campbell River and Halifax, Canada. For more information, please visit www.ittelecom.comSOURCE LINK: http://www.xtera.com/news/83
Monday, September 10, 2012
FTTH - Country Cablevision expects to begin turning up fiber service in early 2013
Country Cablevision has begun deploying Clearfield’s FieldSmart Fiber Scalability Center (FSC) as part of its fiber-optic broadband network build.
Country Cablevision, which provides services in rural Mitchell and Yancey counties in N.C., is among the first cable companies to pursue a full fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) strategy. The company is using $25.3 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities Service (RUS) to provide high-speed Internet services to more than 33,000 people, 1,900 local businesses and 120 community institutions.
As part of the deployment, Country Cablevision plans to place more than 100 FieldSmart FSC 288 PON Cabinets throughout its service area. Through the incremental design, capacity can be scaled to the maximum configuration of the cabinet, allowing Country Cablevision to align the investment in capital equipment to the turn-up of revenue-generating circuits.
"With this project, we reviewed several architectures and had many options for housing our optical splitters and fiber terminations," said Randall Miller, president of Country Cablevision. "We selected Clearfield's FieldSmart Fiber Scalability Center, as it provides a centralized point from which we can serve hundreds of customers. The Clearfield cabinet offers the best fiber protection, access and management in the industry, which will allow us to maintain a state-of-the-art network for many years to come."
The project is underway, and Country Cablevision expects to begin turning up fiber service in early 2013.
Cheri Beranek, president and CEO of Clearfield, said, "While the traditional hybrid fiber/coax (HFC) network has served the cable TV community well, the emergence of FTTH networks in the multiple service operator space demonstrates the immediate and long-term economic opportunity of a rich fiber network."
Country Cablevision, which provides services in rural Mitchell and Yancey counties in N.C., is among the first cable companies to pursue a full fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) strategy. The company is using $25.3 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities Service (RUS) to provide high-speed Internet services to more than 33,000 people, 1,900 local businesses and 120 community institutions.
As part of the deployment, Country Cablevision plans to place more than 100 FieldSmart FSC 288 PON Cabinets throughout its service area. Through the incremental design, capacity can be scaled to the maximum configuration of the cabinet, allowing Country Cablevision to align the investment in capital equipment to the turn-up of revenue-generating circuits.
"With this project, we reviewed several architectures and had many options for housing our optical splitters and fiber terminations," said Randall Miller, president of Country Cablevision. "We selected Clearfield's FieldSmart Fiber Scalability Center, as it provides a centralized point from which we can serve hundreds of customers. The Clearfield cabinet offers the best fiber protection, access and management in the industry, which will allow us to maintain a state-of-the-art network for many years to come."
The project is underway, and Country Cablevision expects to begin turning up fiber service in early 2013.
Cheri Beranek, president and CEO of Clearfield, said, "While the traditional hybrid fiber/coax (HFC) network has served the cable TV community well, the emergence of FTTH networks in the multiple service operator space demonstrates the immediate and long-term economic opportunity of a rich fiber network."
Saturday, September 1, 2012
US IGNITE - broadband infrastructure projects
The President of the United States recently signed an Executive Order (EO) to make broadband construction along Federal roadways and properties up to 90 percent cheaper and more efficient.
Currently, the procedures for approving broadband infrastructure projects on properties controlled or managed by the Federal Government—including large tracts of land, roadways, and more than 10,000 buildings across the Nation—vary depending on which agency manages the property. The new Executive Order will ensure that agencies charged with managing Federal properties and roads take specific steps to adopt a uniform approach for allowing broadband carriers to build networks on and through those assets and speed the delivery of connectivity to communities, businesses, and schools.
The White House also announced that nearly 100 partners—including more than 25 cities as well as corporate and non-profit entities—will join with more than 60 national research universities to form a new public-private partnership called “US Ignite.” The US Ignite Partnership will create a new wave of services that take advantage of state-of-the-art, programmable broadband networks running up to 100 times faster than today’s Internet. By bringing software developers and engineers from government and industry together with representatives from communities, schools, hospitals, and other institutions that will benefit from faster and more agile broadband options, the partnership aims to speed up and increase the development of applications for advanced manufacturing, medical monitoring, emergency preparedness, and a host of other services. These applications will improve services to Americans and drive job creation, promote innovation, and create new markets for American businesses.
Executive Order The Executive Order (EO) requires the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Defense, Interior, Transportation, and Veterans Affairs as well as the US Postal Service to offer carriers a single approach to leasing Federal assets for broadband deployment. The EO also requires available Federal assets and the requirements for leasing is provided on departmental websites, and it will require public tracking of regional broadband deployment projects via the Federal Infrastructure Projects Dashboard (permits.performance.gov). In addition, the Executive Order directs departments to help carriers time their broadband deployment activities to periods when streets are already under construction—an approach that can reduce network deployment costs along Federal roadways by up to 90 percent.
Industry partners offer support to partnership: Global industry leaders including Cisco, Juniper, NEC, and Hewlett-Packard are offering programmatic and in-kind support to communities while carriers, like Verizon and Comcast, are announcing new pilot cities on their network that will participate in US Ignite.
New tools for communities: Non-profits, like the Mott Foundation, are working with the partnership to deliver new community programs, such as hack days and startup weekends, to accelerate the transition these applications into the marketplace.
National coalition of universities: The National Science Foundation (NSF) is committing $20 million to prototype and deploy new technologies to advance the development of ultra-high-speed, programmable broadband networks. That is in addition to the ~$40 million that NSF has invested over four years in the Global Environment for Networking Innovations (GENI) project, which currently connects more than a dozen universities with next-generation broadband connections. Built with the technological contributions of more than 300 NSF-funded researchers at more than 60 universities, GENI is already serving as a virtual laboratory and testbed for next-generation applications in healthcare, energy efficiency, education, and other national priority areas.
Next-Gen apps challenge to spur innovation: NSF and Mozilla Foundation, with support from the Department of Energy, are announcing a $500,000 design competition to develop applications for high-speed communities around the country.
Building on current broadband investments: Departments of Commerce and Agriculture are announcing their support for US Ignite with over six carriers that received funding for expanding their broadband networks while creating new community-based services.
Supporting military families and communities with new applications: Department of Defense is connecting military families on base with new US Ignite services, while creating new research opportunities to students at West Point. HHS’s Beacon Community Program, starting with the Mayo Clinic, and the Federal Communications Commission’s Rural Healthcare Pilot Program are partnering with US Ignite to provide new healthcare applications, such as remote surgical theatre and patient monitoring.
Broadband deployment programs already underway include:
NTIA’s Recovery Act projects are increasing broadband access in communities across the country, with more than 56,000 miles of networks providing broadband access to more than 8,000 schools, libraries, hospitals, and public safety entities.
USDA’s Rural Utilities Service is currently on target to complete over $3 billion in Recovery Act investments ensuring that rural communities and anchor institutions are connected to high-speed broadband networks.
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