Verizon demonstrated 1.6 terabits per second (Tbps) data transmission on a single wavelength using Ciena’s WaveLogic 6 Extreme (WL6e) optical solution in its live metro fiber network in Boston. Conducted over a 118 km (73.3 miles) route with 10 hops and nine reconfigurable optical add-drop multiplexers (ROADMs), the trial showcased WL6e’s ability to deliver high-capacity, energy-efficient connectivity for AI workloads and other bandwidth-intensive applications. Ciena’s WL6e, powered by 3nm silicon, reduces space and power usage by 50% per bit while supporting scalable metro deployments, including 800G connectivity.
The companies said this techniology not only increases Verizon’s network capacity but also delivers significant sustainability benefits, with an 86% reduction in carbon emissions per terabit (kgCO2e/Tb) compared to older systems. Verizon continues to upgrade its infrastructure to support generative AI and real-time data analytics. “This continued advancement of our fiber network will further position us to be the provider of choice for AI workloads now and in the future,” said Adam Koeppe, SVP of Technology Strategy and Planning at Verizon.
• Trial Performance: Achieved 1.6 Tbps on a single wavelength across a 118 km route with 10 hops and nine ROADMs.
• Technology: Utilized Ciena’s WL6e, leveraging 3nm silicon for improved efficiency.
• Energy Efficiency: 86% reduction in emissions per terabit compared to previous systems.
• Applications: Optimized for AI workloads, generative AI, and bandwidth-heavy applications.
• Scalability: Supports 1.6 Tbps and 800G metro deployments with enhanced capacity.
Quote:
“This continued advancement of our fiber network will further position us to be the provider of choice for AI workloads now and in the future.” – Adam Koeppe, SVP of Technology Strategy and Planning, Verizon.
