Fujitsu, HFR Networks pair to offer 25G, 10G auto-tunable transceivers for 5G transport
Fujitsu Network Communications (FNC) and HFR Networks say they have collaborated to offer the latter’s Smart Tunable Optics as part of the Smart xHaul flexiHaul portfolio of 5G xhaul systems from FNC. The Smart Tunable Optics T-SFP optical transceivers feature auto-tuning capability as well as inband service channel that enables advanced diagnostics. Sources at the two companies say that at least some of FNC’s current Tier 1 operator customers will deploy the transceivers in their networks.
The Smart Tunable Optics transceivers are available in 10G DWDM bidi and duplex formats as well as 25G duplex; this last is an industry first, according to HFR Networks CEO Paul Crann and Joe Mocerino, global solutions architect and 5G technology expert at FNC. The optical modules, which are in production, are used with the FNC HSN8000 Series C-RAN systems and M-Series time-sensitive networking (TSN) switches and can automatically tune to the appropriate wavelength in 60 to 90 seconds, according to the two sources. In addition to speeding initial service turnup, the auto-tuning also can facilitate network reconfiguration. The devices are designed to retain their tuning in the face of network failures such as fiber cuts, Crann adds.
Smart Tunable Optics support linear and point-to-point architectures and are compatible with WDM networking (in fact, passive filters for the purpose are part of the FNC/HFR Networks portfolio). They also can be used to carry Ethernet and IP traffic (including Wi-Fi) for operators who want to converge multiple services over the same network. Crann says that HFR Networks currently is focused on the 5G opportunity rather than also supplying the modules purely to support business Ethernet services, for example; he predicts that applications in addition to 5G xhaul will eventually move to self-tunable modules in the future.
In addition to the auto-tuning function, the modules also feature an integrated service channel that helps to enable creation of a demarcation point between the transport network and radio, as well as perform remote radio head (RRH) or radio unit (RU) connectivity verification and traffic testing. Meanwhile, a built-in PRBS pattern generator can test link quality and transceiver operation. Smart Tunable Optics modules must be on both ends of the xhaul connection to enable the tuning and diagnostics capabilities, Crann points out.
HFR Networks, based in Richardson, TX, is the international operations arm of HFR Networks of South Korea. Fujitsu has collaborated with HFR for more than five years (see, for example, “Fujitsu offers Smart xHaul plug-in transponder card for 5G fronthaul/backhaul”).
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Stephen Hardy | Editorial Director and Associate Publisher, Lightwave
Stephen Hardy is editorial director and associate publisher of Lightwave and Broadband Technology Report, part of the Lighting & Technology Group at Endeavor Business Media. Stephen is responsible for establishing and executing editorial strategy across the both brands’ websites, email newsletters, events, and other information products. He has covered the fiber-optics space for more than 20 years, and communications and technology for more than 35 years. During his tenure, Lightwave has received awards from Folio: and the American Society of Business Press Editors (ASBPE) for editorial excellence. Prior to joining Lightwave in 1997, Stephen worked for Telecommunications magazine and the Journal of Electronic Defense.
Stephen has moderated panels at numerous events, including the Optica Executive Forum, ECOC, and SCTE Cable-Tec Expo. He also is program director for the Lightwave Innovation Reviews and the Diamond Technology Reviews.
He has written numerous articles in all aspects of optical communications and fiber-optic networks, including fiber to the home (FTTH), PON, optical components, DWDM, fiber cables, packet optical transport, optical transceivers, lasers, fiber optic testing, and more.
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