Japanese break world record in data transmission
Japanese researchers have shown that commercial glass fiber cables can achieve significantly higher transmission speeds than Gigabit data rates. With a combination of various amplifier techniques, they set a new world record of 402 Terabits per second (Tb/s).
In Germany, the glass fiber buildout lags behind in Europe, but according to the Federal Network Agency, around every third household had a corresponding connection by the end of 2023. If the glass fiber cable reaches the router (FTTH), theoretical data transfer rates of up to 10 Gigabits per second (Gbit/s) are possible, while regular users can usually only book up to 1 Gbit/s. The potential of glass fiber is far from being exhausted. Researchers at the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) in Tokyo have managed to set a new world record of 402 Tb/s.
To achieve this, the team led by Benjamin Puttnam combined six different amplifier techniques and used novel optical dispersion compensators. The transmission took place over a standard 50-kilometer glass fiber cable.
With the measured 402 Tb/s, the researchers exceeded the previous record by a proud 25%. The achieved transmission bandwidth of a total of 37.6 Terahertz (THz) also sets a new world record with a 35% increase.
Over 1500 parallel transmissions
"We have extended the transmission of DWDM data streams so that they cover all main transmission bands in the lossless window of standard glass fibers," quotes the science magazine "Scinexx" the researchers. In DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing), separate data streams are combined, but they can still be sent through a fiber without mixing or interference. "Our technology enables more than 1500 parallel transmissions within an optical bandwidth of 274 nanometers (37.6 Terahertz)", write the Japanese researchers.
While many Germans are still dreaming of a Gigabit connection, according to the researchers, higher data rates are necessary for future information services. New wavelength range areas enable the usage duration of existing glass fiber networks to be extended. The research team also assumes that they can be combined with new glass fiber technologies.
In Japan, the advancements in education and technology have led to significant strides in internet use, with researchers at the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) setting a world record for data transmission speeds at 402 Terabits per second (Tb/s). This high-speed internet use in Japan can potentially revolutionize various sectors, including education, by enabling real-time, high-definition lessons and collaborative learning experiences. Additionally, the widespread use of the internet in Japan has contributed to a high adoption rate of online learning platforms, making education more accessible and flexible for many.
