Record of transmitting 402 Tb of data using fiber optic cable

An international research team led by the Photonic Network Laboratory of Japan’s National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) demonstrated an optical transmission bandwidth of 37.6 terahertz (THz) allowing to set a record for data rates of 402 terabits (Tb)/s over commercially available fiber optic cables, Interesting Engineering reported on June 27.

The researchers achieved the above record by building the first all-band optical transmission system (OESCLU) of standard fiber cables. The system incorporates multiple amplifier technologies, including 6 doped fiber amplifiers. The new optical calibration device also allows access to wavelength ranges not previously used in deployed systems. The technology developed by NICT will contribute significantly to expanding the capabilities of optical transmission infrastructure as demand for data services increases rapidly in the future.

In this experiment, the team expanded dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) to cover all major frequency bands, achieving more than 1,500 parallel channels in a bandwidth of 37.6 THz (275 nm). Together with partners, NICT built the world’s first O- to U-band transmission system, enabling DWDM transmission using standard off-the-shelf fiber with custom-designed amplifier technology.

The estimated data rate after transmission over 40 km was 402 Tb/s, 25% higher than the previous record, and the bandwidth of 37.6 THz also marked a 35% increase. The experimental results demonstrate the potential for ultra-wideband transmission by applying new signal amplification and processing technology, which increases the information transmission capacity of optical fibers.

NICT will continue to promote research and development of amplifier technology, components and optical fibers to support applications in the near and long term. Researchers also aim to extend the transmission range of ultra-wideband systems with ultra-high power.