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Talking points

Jim Zou debates what comes next for access networks at OFC

Panel will delve into advancements in passive optical networks, exploring coherent technology and ultra-low latency connectivity for future beyond 5G

  • Speakers: Jim Zou, senior manager, global business development, Adtran; Rene Bonk, department head, Fixed Networks, Nokia Bell Labs; Denis Khotimsky, DMTS, technology, Verizon; Idelfonso Tafur Monroy, professor, Eindhoven University of Technology, Fabienne Saliou, research engineer, Orange Labs; Elaine Wong, pro-vice-chancellor (people and equity), The University of Melbourne
  • Topics: Can new access technology and architectures support the beyond 5G network vision?
  • When: Tuesday, March 26, 2 p.m. PT
  • Where: OFC, San Diego Convention Center, San Diego, California, USA https://www.ofcconference.org/en-us/home/ 

Passive optical networks (PONs), traditionally developed for residential broadband, are on the cusp of transformative change due to technological advancements like coherent technology. These developments promise not only increased capacity and flexibility but also the potential for supporting innovative architectures. These future-oriented architectures could facilitate services such as X-Haul transport for mmWave and THz communications, including analog radio over fiber, and enable ubiquitous ultra-low latency connectivity to edge network nodes. This evolution reflects a shift from conventional uses to meeting the demands of future network services beyond 5G, highlighting the pivotal role of PONs in the next era of telecommunications.

In this session, Jim Zou and a panel of experts composed of operators, vendors and academics will discuss how PON architectures will evolve, what supporting technology will be available in the near to medium term, and whether it can fully support the vision for networks beyond 5G. The conversation will delve into the potential of coherent technology to revolutionize fiber access networks, enabling them to meet the requirements of future services, including those necessary for ultra-low latency and high-capacity communications. This panel aims to explore the readiness of PONs to underpin the next generation of network technologies, marking a significant step toward realizing the full potential of future telecommunications infrastructure.