Blistering 402 Tb/s fiber optic speeds achieved by unlocking unused wavelengths
Japanese researchers achieved a 402 Tb/s data transfer speed using unused wavelengths in standard fiber optics.
Scientists in Japan have set a new world record for data transfer speed, achieving 402 terabits per second using conventional fiber optic cables. The team, led by the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, presented their findings at the Optical Fiber Communication Conference in San Diego.
To achieve this speed, the researchers tapped into unexplored frequency ranges within the low-loss transmission window of standard fiber optic cables. They combined various signal amplification methods, including doped fiber amplifiers and distributed Raman amplification, and utilized 1,505 separate transmission channels across 31 miles of cable.
While consumer internet at terabit-per-second speeds remains a distant goal, this achievement shows significant potential. The researchers believe their approach can help deliver high-speed 'Beyond 5G' services, enhancing data rates and extending the lifespan of existing infrastructure. However, real-world implementation would require costly upgrades to amplifiers and transmission equipment.