Adtran, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADTN) today announced the successful demonstration of its coherent 100ZR technology at OFC 2023, billed as the industry’s first live showcase of a 100ZR QSFP28 pluggable module operating over a DWDM metro ring.
The company contends the demonstration shows how operators can benefit from efficient, cost-effective deployment of coherent 100Gbit/s services with minimal power consumption and zero footprint increase.
The technology trial employs the multi-vendor OFCnet network, set up with equipment at the Adtran booth, as well as the Coherent Corp. and OFCnet booths.
Adtran says its Coherent 100ZR product is purpose-built for the optical network edge. With its QSFP28 form factor and power specification, the new module enables easy operator upgrades to 100Gbit/s data rates by plugging directly into existing head-ends, switches and routers. It offers a wide range of deployment options, from local exchanges and central offices to harsh outdoor conditions such as street cabinets.
These benefits are achieved thanks to the transceiver‘s unique features, including a cost-, space- and power-optimized DSP specifically engineered for 100ZR technology. Co-developed by Adtran and Coherent Corp., this all-new DSP is unique to the marketplace; Adtran sayt it is also developing low-power silicon photonics integrated circuits that will enable even faster and more energy-efficient solutions across a wide range of applications.
Saeid Aramideh, VP of business development for optical engines, Adtran, remarked:
“This demo is a significant milestone for network operators looking to expand their business capabilities. It highlights how our Coherent 100ZR can be easily and affordably integrated into a metro aggregation network, eliminating the need for costly infrastructure changes. This showcase reveals a valuable solution for operators seeking to support higher data rates at the network edge and highlights the potential for widespread adoption of 100Gbit/s coherent technology. We can’t wait to bring these benefits to our customers.”
Ross Saunders, GM of Optical Engines, Adtran, concluded:
“The technology we’re showcasing here will be a game-changer for service providers. It offers the ability to easily deploy coherent 100Gbit/s connectivity with compact footprint and lowest power consumption. By bringing coherent technology to the optical edge, we’re providing operators with a cost-efficient solution to upgrade edge aggregation networks to 100Gbit/s. Our Coherent 100ZR will also boost sustainability by lowering our customers’ carbon footprint. What’s more, it offers a way to deliver an improved experience for end-users by supporting higher data rates and improved service reliability.”