SoftBank to deploy Cisco QSFP 100G ZR4 pluggable optical transceivers

Nov. 1, 2022
Use of the pluggable optics will enable Softbank to reduce network power consumption and carbon footprint for 100G links of up to 80 km.

Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO) says that it will supply its QSFP 100G ZR4 pluggable optical transceivers to SoftBank Corp. for use in the service provider’s metro network. Use of the pluggable optics will enable Softbank to reduce network power consumption and carbon footprint for 100G links of up to 80 km.

“SoftBank is aiming to create and deliver new digital solutions and experiences for business and society while meeting our corporate goals for sustainability. With the Cisco 100G ZR4 pluggable optical transceiver, we are now able to construct our network rapidly by establishing plug-and-play connectivity of our routers between remote sites. The solution also contributes to lower the power consumption and the footprint by reducing the number of devices required in the sites,” said Teruyuki Oya, vice president, head, IP & Transport Technology Division at SoftBank. “We look forward to our continued collaboration with Cisco to maximize the advancement of optical technology and optimize how our network delivers digital experiences for all our customers.”

Cisco says the deployment is part of an ongoing relationship between the two companies as Softbank continues to upgrade its network to provide scalability, reliability, flexibility, and agility (see, for an early example, “SoftBank deploys Cisco Network Convergence System 5500 to upgrade next-gen mobile IP network”). “Cisco and SoftBank have crossed many milestones together to strengthen its network and help it run more efficiently to deliver premium digital experiences for its customers in Japan and around the world. Together, we accelerate building the Internet for the Future by delivering faster secure connections that enable hybrid work while simultaneously reducing carbon emissions,” said Sanjay Kaul, APJ service provider, Cisco.

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About the Author

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.

You can connect with Stephen on LinkedIn as well as Twitter.

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