CPqD

New generation of optical systems increases transmission capacity of telecommunication networks

The steep increase in the use of telecommunication networks for data transmission - which not only shows no sign of letting up but will tend to grow even more as a greater percentage of the population gains access to broadband internet - calls for a constant increase in the fiber optical core over which this data travels.

To handle this ever-increasing demand, CPqD has been working on the development of a new generation of ultra-high speed optical systems, combining WDM (Wavelength Division Multiplexing) technology with 100 Gigabits per second (Gbps) transmission rates. This combination will allow speeds of up to 9.6 Terabits per second (Tbps) per optical fiber, with 96 channels in the network backbone. This is world class, state of the art optical communication technology.

One of the results of this project, which CPqD has been developing since 2010, with the support of the Communications Ministry's FUNTTEL (Fund for the Technological Development of Brazilian Telecommunications), is the new 100-Gbps optical transmission module, based on DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing) technology, and compliant with the international interoperability specifications established by the Optical Internetworking Forum (OIF).

Developed in a partnership between Padtec and Israeli Civcom (a manufacturer of optoelectronic modules acquired by Padtec in 2008), the new product will provide highly sophisticated digital processing of signals (DSP) received by the DWDM optical receiver that have traveled hundreds - or even thousands - of miles over the optical fiber network.

Padtec will be the main consumer of these modules, which will be integrated into their products. Civcom will be responsible for producing the new devices, which will be supplied to Padtec and also exported to other equipment manufacturers worldwide. The project includes plans to develop a DSP chip for 100-400 Gbps transmitters in the future.