The Role of Fiber Optics in a Connected World

The increasing interconnectedness and digitization of society as well as the monitoring of critical infrastructures (KRITIS) as prescribed by European law. In both areas, fiber optics play a decisive role.

Valuable insight was provided by Dr. Jörg Ochs, Managing Director of SWM Infrastruktur GmbH & Co. KG, which operates the distribution networks of Stadtwerke München. In his lecture, he explained in which areas the Bavarian metropolis is already on its way to becoming a digital city and which current projects are a driving force behind this development.

It was also impressive to see the level in which many areas of public life are already interlinked with one another.

Uwe Hanelt of Corning Optical Communications GmbH focused his contribution on the convergence of fixed and mobile networks. The next generation of mobile communications (G5) is in the starting blocks and will support highly networked applications in the Internet of Things with high data rates. The necessary capacities can only be guaranteed by fiber optics. The fiber manufacturers therefore prepared themselves for strongly growing demand.

Broadband rollout continues to be one of the most pressing issues in the fiber optic industry.

Underground installation is not always the most economical procedure – for example, when it comes to connecting remote buildings in rural regions. However, above-ground telephone cables are usually available there. Mario Zerson of Deutsche Telekom explained how these infrastructures can be used for FTTH installation.

With a good dozen lectures and subsequent discussions, a considerable amount of work had to be done. But despite of their tight agenda, the participants used the lunch and coffee the breaks to inform themselves about the opportunities and possibilities of broadband promotion at the mobile information center of the Federal Broadband Office. At the end of the day, all visitors were satisfied with the results.

Dr. Andreas Hornsteiner, Head of the Fiber Optics business unit at LASER COMPONENTS, sees the current trends reflected in his daily customer business. "There is a growing demand for fiber optic monitoring, measurement technology and network monitoring. More and more carriers, public utilities, data centers and utility companies that are approaching us not only need products but also ask for detailed advice and support regarding the installation of the systems".