Ensure the reliability of optical communication
Implementing optical wiring solutions
Commitment to meeting customers’ needs for high-density storage at data centers
The Sumitomo Electric Group developed the 3456-fiber-count optical cable, but various types of optical connector products had to be developed concurrently with the development of these cables. The ultra-high fiber count cables installed in data center buildings are distributed using various types of optical connector products and related equipment for optimal storage and wiring; such equipment is required for data centers to achieve high-speed and large-capacity optical communication and to offer cloud computing services. A high-capacity optical closure is one such piece of equipment. When optical cables are connected in the outside, the closure stores the splicing point of fibers. Optical cables installed in the data center building are terminated in racks (main distribution frames) and distributed to respective areas in the building. An optical connector is another piece of important equipment. These various types of equipment had to be developed for the innovative ultra-high fiber count environment.
Tomohiko Ueda, Manager of the Data Center Engineering Dept., Lightwave Network Products Div. says, “We are closely supporting customers and identify their issues through in-depth interviews. We are designing and developing optical connector products to solve these issues. The key point is how to store 3456-fiber-count optical fibers at high density and achieve optimal wiring. To increase workability, ensure reliability and improve functionality and expandability, we held a lot of discussions with customers and offered our solutions based on appropriate customization.” In the process of offering the optical wiring solutions, Ueda and other members have developed the optical connector with world-class low connection loss. They also have developed automatic measuring equipment to conduct inspections for ensuring reliability after connection. These products are highly valued by customers.
Strategy to meet the strong demand from globalizing data centers
Data centers have been expanding rapidly in the U.S. Recently, data centers have been increasingly globalized.
“The number of data centers has been increasing not only in the U.S. but also in Europe and Asia. The demand for ultra-high fiber count optical cables is highly likely to continue to increase rapidly. We must meet the strong demand properly. The key is to achieve short delivery time and low cost. To this end, it is necessary to consider reorganizing our design centers and production facilities globally. Conventionally, we served as a developer of optoelectronics equipment and worked to meet the needs. But now we are expected to serve as a global manufacturer as well.” (Yoshiyuki Suetsugu, General Manager of the Lightwave Network Products Div.)
The Sumitomo Electric Group’s ultra-high fiber count optical cables are highly evaluated by data centers around the world. The reputation is underpinned both by the ultra-high fiber count technology and advanced optoelectronics equipment.
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