Ekinops Achieves Milestone with Successful EMBRACE Connectivity Project Completion
In a groundbreaking advancement for connectivity solutions, Ekinops, a European leader in optical transport and enterprise-grade connectivity, has announced the successful completion of the EMBRACE project. This initiative, a collaborative effort between Ekinops and three prominent industrial partners, was spearheaded by Orange Innovation and focused on enhancing multiband optical transmission capabilities.
Project Overview and Objectives
EMBRACE, which stands for Efficient Multi-Band network Architecture and Components for Petabit/s Elastic networks, was launched in early 2021. The project's primary objective was to conduct a multi-band optical transmission across a metro/regional scenario measuring four times 100 kilometers. This initiative represents a significant technical milestone in the telecommunications industry, particularly in the realm of optical communications.
The successful execution of EMBRACE is a testament to the innovation and collaborative efforts of the involved parties. Rated "Excellent" in its final evaluation, the project showcases pioneering technologies that allow for increased flexibility and potential returns on investment (ROI) through the optimization of existing network infrastructures.
Key Contributions from Partners
Ekinops played a vital role in the project, contributing discrete S-band Raman amplifiers, which are adaptable for use with other bands as well. Other key contributions came from EXAIL, which developed multi-band MUX/DEMUX systems, and MPB Communications, which provided distributed Raman amplifiers to manage inter-band stimulated Raman scattering. Additionally, IMT Atlantique, a French institution, was responsible for evaluating the introduction of multi-band transport within various network scenarios, enriching the project's overall technical framework.
Technical Innovations and Achievements
EMBRACE has demonstrated several state-of-the-art technologies, which include multi-band amplifiers, discrete and distributed Raman amplifiers, and multi-band wavelength MUX/DEMUX systems. The project managed to establish five sites for multi-band amplification across a distance of 400 kilometers, marking a first in the industry.
The technical solutions derived from EMBRACE are designed to help network operators maximize their existing fiber infrastructure, ultimately providing a robust and future-proof avenue for expanding data transport capacity. This advancement ensures not only the longevity of fiber routes but also meets the rising demands associated with evolving networking challenges.
Claude Le Bouëtté, Senior Director of Transport RD at Ekinops, expressed the significance of this project, stating, "This project answers the growing need for operators to make the most capacity out of their existing equipment. The business relevance of this project is very high for the market and for all involved partners as it pushes beyond the data's current transport capacity while reusing installed legacy fiber."
Recognition and Support
The success and impact of the EMBRACE project have been recognized by various stakeholders, including auditors from the Celtic office, public authorities, and other partners who have supported the initiative. The project has been funded by the Region Bretagne through the Lannion Trégor Communauté under the PSPC-Régions program, further emphasizing the community and governmental support behind this innovative endeavor.
As the telecommunications landscape continues to evolve, the findings and innovations from EMBRACE could herald a new era in optical transmission, positioning Ekinops and its partners at the forefront of cutting-edge connectivity solutions.