In a groundbreaking advancement for global data transmission, Japanese researchers have achieved a world record internet speed of 402 terabits per second (Tbps) over a distance of 50 kilometers using commercially available optical fiber. This feat, accomplished by the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) in collaboration with international partners, was presented at the Optical Fiber Communication Conference 2024 in San Diego.Tom’s Hardware+1NICT+1
Unprecedented Speed and Bandwidth
The team successfully transmitted data through 1,505 separate channels across an expansive 37.6 terahertz (THz) bandwidth. This was achieved by combining six different types of doped-fiber amplifiers with both lumped and distributed Raman amplification techniques, effectively utilizing all low-loss transmission bands of silica fibers, including the O, E, S, C, L, and U bands.
To put this achievement into perspective, a speed of 402 Tbps would theoretically allow for the download of approximately 12,500 high-definition movies in a single second. VnExpress International+2YourStory+2eaglesjournal.com+2
Technological Innovations
Central to this accomplishment was the development of a novel transmission system capable of dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) across the full low-loss spectrum of standard optical fibers. The researchers employed advanced modulation formats, including dual-polarization 256-ary quadrature amplitude modulation (DP-256QAM), to maximize data throughput. Additionally, custom-designed optical gain equalizers were utilized to manage signal amplification across the wide range of wavelengths. Tom’s Hardware+3NICT+3Cyber Security News+3
Implications for Future Networks
This record-breaking speed demonstrates the potential for significantly expanding the capacity of existing optical communication infrastructure without the need for entirely new fiber deployments. By tapping into previously unused wavelength bands, the technology offers a pathway to meet the growing demand for high-speed data transmission driven by emerging applications such as 5G, 6G, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality.
While the current achievement was realized under laboratory conditions, the researchers are optimistic about the practical applications of their work. They aim to extend these high-speed transmission capabilities over longer distances and are exploring the integration of their technologies into existing network infrastructures. arabtimes+2YourStory+2eaglesjournal.com+2eaglesjournal.com
Conclusion
Japan’s achievement of a 402 Tbps internet speed marks a significant milestone in the field of optical communications. By leveraging advanced amplification techniques and fully utilizing the low-loss spectrum of standard optical fibers, the researchers have set a new benchmark for data transmission speeds. This breakthrough holds promise for the future of global connectivity, offering solutions to meet the ever-increasing demand for high-speed data services.
