Ramsey, N.J. - Enterprise users looking to deploy wave division multiplexing (WDM) to handle large volumes of traffic can check out a new device from ADVA Optical Solutions, Inc.
ADVA has doubled the maximum number of channels in its high-end Optical Channel Multiplexer (OCM) line, which offers enterprise users a way to transmit large quantities of data, video or voice over a fiber backbone. WDM uses the colors of light, or optical wavelengths, to send data over a single fiber channel.
WDM works by bringing together multiple datastreams from PCs or video cameras and converting their data into distinct colors before transmitting across a single channel on a fiber backbone. A second mux is required at the other end of the link to convert that optical data back into its original form.
The new OCM device has 16 channels. ADVA also offers four- and eight-channel OCM models. Users can upgrade the eight-port model to the 16-port model without taking the existing box down. ADVA claims it can use WDM over a single pair of optical fibers spanning distances up to 50 kilometers. OCM operates at speeds from 10G to 1.2 G bit/sec.
Analysts said WDM devices would be most cost-effective to users with existing fiber-optic backbones that need extra capacity but cannot add fiber, such as companies in big cities where installing fiber can be a nightmare.
Brian McCann, president of Optical Solutions, said the WDM market has "been going bananas" and is currently worth about $2.5 billion.
The new OCM will be available in the fourth quarter. The price for upgrading existing OCMs will start at $72,000, McCann said. Additional ports will cost $12,000 each.
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