More and more, the digital age is expanding the number of exabytes transmitted across communication networks, and the radio frequency spectrum is broadening alongside the growing gigabyte demands of mobile technology. Autonomous vehicles, the Internet of Things (IoT), and Smart Cities are just a few of the emerging concepts on our horizon\u2014but what implications does all of this hold for fiber optics?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Clearly, this medium is essential for carrying this massive volume of data. The fastest, most reliable, and most secure digital channels can only exist thanks to the transmission capacity of optical light. Fiber optics enables 8K technology, multi-gigabyte bandwidths, and the transition to 5G mobile networks<\/a>\u2014a phenomenon known as network convergence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The upcoming 5G network introduces strict requirements for latency, bandwidth, data transmission rates, and connectivity (the sheer volume of connected devices). Meeting these demands requires multiplying the current number of antennas, which must in turn be connected to the physical network via fiber optic rings\u2014with demands being especially high in urban environments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When considering current FTTx network<\/a> deployments, we could largely achieve the coverage density and penetration required for future 5G network topologies, both for macro cells (or sites) and particularly for small cells (compact antennas spaced every 100 to 200 meters across urban infrastructure). Furthermore, to optimize transmission and minimize loss from small bend radii\u2014unavoidable in small cell installations on streetlights, traffic signals, signage, and stations\u2014the use of G.657-A2<\/a> bend-insensitive fiber optic cable becomes indispensable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n