Key Findings
Nokia has demonstrated that coherent pluggable optics can be applied to subsea cable networks to lower costs, reduce power consumption, and increase data capacity. In trials conducted with Telxius on the Brazil-USA (BRUSA) submarine cable, Nokia’s ICE-X 800G technology achieved transmission speeds of 600G per wavelength over a distance of 2,841km. Additionally, the companies recorded a transmission milestone of 400G per wavelength over 5,862km.
Technical Details
Coherent pluggable optics are compact devices designed to transport large volumes of data over fiber networks. Compared to traditional equipment, these pluggables require less physical space and consume less power. The technology has evolved through advancements in digital signal processors (DSPs), with speeds increasing from 100G and 200G to 800G. These modules can be deployed either directly in routers or within thin transponders.
Background and Context
While coherent pluggables are already established in metro and long-haul terrestrial networks, their application in subsea environments is a newer development. Serge Melle, Nokia’s Optical Networks Product & Solutions Marketing lead, noted that the proven benefits in land-based networks—specifically system density and reduced cost per bit—have led subsea operators to seek similar efficiencies for underwater applications.
Significance and Outlook
The adoption of pluggable optics allows subsea operators to optimize for space and power; however, they do not entirely replace traditional hardware. Nokia stated that more powerful traditional optical equipment remains essential for the most demanding routes, such as those stretching 15,000km or more. Looking forward, Nokia expects future iterations of its pluggable technology to support speeds of 800G or higher across ocean-spanning cables, providing a flexible balance between reach and capacity.
Source: https://www.mobileeurope.co.uk/nokia-subsea-expansion-pluggable/
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