Finer Networking
The more finely you can slice the optical spectrum into distinct signal-carrying channels, the more data you can send through an optical fiber. That’s the idea behind wavelength division multiplexing, which has brought tremendous data-carrying capacity to fiber-optic communications systems. Now Columbia, MD-based Essex has developed a variation on this technology designed to improve the lower-capacity optical networks extending from intercity fiber backbones into metropolitan areas. Essex’s “Hyperfine” technology subdivides each optical channel into 50 to 100 subchannels, separated by less than a hundredth of a nanometer. So far, Essex has demonstrated this spacing over a wavelength band of about 0.1 nanometers, but the company plans to demonstrate an industry-standard 0.4-nanometer version early this year. In addition to providing better performance over existing fiber, the company claims the technology can better “tune” or control each of these channels, providing more flexible deployment of optical lines to specific corporate customers.
Keep Reading
Most Popular

Anti-aging drugs are being tested as a way to treat covid
Drugs that rejuvenate our immune systems and make us biologically younger could help protect us from the disease’s worst effects.

These materials were meant to revolutionize the solar industry. Why hasn’t it happened?
Perovskites are promising, but real-world conditions have held them back.

The baby formula shortage has birthed a shady online marketplace
Desperate parents just want to feed their babies. They’re having to contend with misinformation, price gouging, and scams along the way.

I tried to buy an Olive Garden NFT. All I got was heartburn.
Our newest issue spells out what you need to know about the dizzying world of digital money.
Stay connected

Get the latest updates from
MIT Technology Review
Discover special offers, top stories, upcoming events, and more.