Huawei Launches the F5.5G-Oriented All-Optical Target Networ

In an impressive presentation during the Ultra-Broadband Forum (UBBF) 2023 in Dubai, Richard Jin, the President of Huawei Optical Business Product Line, unveiled an ambitious vision for the future of networking. His keynote speech, titled “Bring F5.5G to Reality: Milestones on Our Way to an Intelligent World,” marked a significant moment in the telecommunications industry. Richard introduced the groundbreaking concept of a three-phase network construction that seeks to revolutionize the way we connect, experience, and interact with the digital world.

In a world driven by increasingly demanding digital experiences, Huawei’s innovative approach represents a significant leap forward. The three-phase network architecture is based on three core driving forces for network development: video (100Mbps network), experience (1Gbps network), and intelligence (10Gbps network). In response to these forces, Huawei has unveiled the F5.5G-oriented three-phase all-optical target network architecture, offering a comprehensive solution to meet the ever-evolving network connection needs.

Huawei Launches the F5.5G

Phase 1: Video-Driven, All-Optical Coverage for 100Mbps Home Broadband

The digital world is undergoing a rapid transformation. With the continuous improvement in video resolution and the widespread use of video interaction and immersive XR (Extended Reality), bandwidth demands are escalating. In this initial phase, the focus is on achieving an all-optical network with a 100Mbps home broadband rate. This enables users to enjoy high-definition video streaming and interactive experiences seamlessly.

Huawei’s approach involves replacing traditional copper lines and cables with Fiber to the Home (FTTH) all-optical networks. By employing serialized AirPON technology, they accelerate FTTH construction, supporting Gigabit Passive Optical Network (GPON) and 10G Passive Optical Network (PON) compatibility. This ensures the rapid provision of gigabit services in high-demand areas.

To facilitate this, operators are deploying Optical Transport Network (OTN) technology to the metro aggregation layer and building 3D-mesh 400G-ready backbone networks. These networks support non-blocking bandwidth and zero video lag, ensuring a seamless video streaming experience. Key technological innovations in this phase include FlexPON, Distributed Quasi-Optical Distribution Network (DQ ODN), and high-performance 400G technology.

Phase 2: Experience-Driven, All-Optical Connections Extending 1Gbps to Rooms

As digital applications diversify and permeate every aspect of our lives, the need for high-speed connectivity extends from living rooms to bedrooms, studies, and kitchens. Users now expect an immersive digital experience that covers every nook and cranny of their homes.

To meet this demand, Huawei is upgrading to 10G PON technology to deliver gigabit services. They are introducing Fiber to the Room (FTTR) solutions, metro 100G OTN to Central Offices (COs), and backbone 400G non-blocking ultra-broadband infrastructure. This approach guarantees a premium home network experience for users and offers end-to-end (E2E) service experience assurance.

Notable technological innovations in this phase include FTTR, metro pooling Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM), and the implementation of an intelligent network management and control system.

Phase 3: Intelligence-Driven, All-Optical Computing for 10Gbps Everywhere

The emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming content production and driving the intelligent transformation of various industries. To cope with surges in data traffic and the migration of massive data to the cloud, a computing-centric network is essential. This network must provide bus-level connection capabilities that enable the efficient exchange of information between data centers and end-users.

In this advanced phase, Huawei introduces the FTTR-based all-optical home bus, which supports the seamless integration of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and offers connection, sensing, computing, and storage capabilities at speeds of 10Gbps throughout the home. Additionally, the all-optical cloud bus, based on 50G PON and 800G OTN technology, facilitates one-hop user-data center (DC) or DC-to-DC connections. These technologies are paving the way for real-time information exchange and intelligent computing capabilities.

Key innovations in this phase include 50G PON, metro OTN extending completely to Central Offices, and backbone 800G infrastructure. Huawei has also introduced Kepler, the next-generation Optical Transport Network (OTN) platform, which offers more than 100T single-subrack switching capacity. Kepler’s use of new materials and structures results in a 65% reduction in power consumption per Gbit and a Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) rating of 1.2. It also features intelligent computing units that significantly improve connection efficiency.

F5.5G-Oriented Three-Phase All-Optical Target Network Architecture

Huawei’s three-phase all-optical target network architecture represents a groundbreaking approach to network evolution. It ensures parallel development and seamless upgrades, making the transition from F5G to F5.5G a reality. Richard Jin emphasized the importance of having the right network construction solution for each development phase. He pointed out that the world has already witnessed the transformation brought by 100Mbps network connectivity and is currently experiencing the impact of 1Gbps networks. The future, he believes, is poised for a societal transformation driven by 10Gbps networks.

In conclusion, Huawei’s F5.5G-oriented three-phase all-optical target network architecture embodies a vision for the future of telecommunications. It promises to bring F5.5G into reality and set the stage for a more intelligent world. As we stand on the precipice of these transformative developments, it’s an exciting time for the industry and technology enthusiasts alike. With innovative solutions like these, the possibilities are limitless, and the future is indeed bright.