China Mobile has taken a significant leap forward in optical network technology with the successful launch of the first 800G hollow-core fiber transmission test network. Conducted in Shenzhen-Dongguan, Guangdong, this groundbreaking experiment showcases the potential of this next-generation technology.
The test achieved impressive results on a 20-kilometer link
The test, completed in collaboration with domestic optical fiber, cable, and equipment manufacturers, focused on verifying the performance of anti-resonant hollow-core fiber under real-world conditions. This included simulating various challenges like pulling, squeezing, water vapor exposure, and outdoor welding.
The test achieved impressive results on a 20-kilometer link. Key technical indicators, including hollow-to-hollow core fiber welding loss (0.05 dB), hollow-to-solid core connection loss (less than 0.3 dB), and optical cable loss after laying (0.6 dB/km), all reached “world-class levels.”
Hollow-core fiber (HCF) utilizes a novel air light-guiding mechanism, guiding light through air instead of traditional glass. This technology has the potential to overcome the limitations of solid-core fiber, offering significant advantages in backbone and data center transmission.
China Mobile’s experiment extended beyond basic performance verification. By employing a single-wavelength 800Gbps wide-spectrum optical transmission system, they successfully conducted a 20km single-core fiber bidirectional 128Tb/s ultra-large capacity transmission test. This achievement demonstrates the feasibility of deploying anti-resonant hollow-core fiber in complex network environments.
Another key aspect of the test involved constructing the first hybrid optical cable using both anti-resonant hollow-core and solid-core fibers. This cable successfully met basic mechanical property standards for stretching, flattening, bending, impact, and torsion.
The experiment faced an unexpected challenge – Typhoon Malis struck Shenzhen and Dongguan during the laying phase. Despite these harsh weather conditions, China Mobile, alongside domestic industry partners, conducted the first-ever test of anti-resonant hollow-core fiber cable technology in a complex pipeline network environment. This resulted in the completion of a hollow-core optical cable for a typical financial dedicated line route within the Greater Bay Area, offering a potential 30% reduction in optical link transmission delay.
While the test results are promising, China Mobile acknowledges the need for further advancements. Their focus will be on reducing hollow-core fiber loss and optimizing fiber structure design to enable large-scale production. Additionally, they plan to implement a collaborative R&D model for ultra-800G transmission systems and fiber design, accelerating the development of anti-resonant hollow-core fibers and their corresponding optical communication systems.
(Via)
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