AI Drives the Revolution of Optical Network Technology: China FIBERTalk 2024 Held at Optics Valley of China
Date: 2024-05-20
On May 17, the China FIBERTalk 2024 took place at Optics Valley, Wuhan, China. Co-sponsored by the Fiber Network Council APAC (FNCAP) and Yangtze Optical Fibre and Cable Joint Stock Limited Company (YOFC, stock code: 601869.SH, 06869.HK), the event gathered leaders and experts from globally well-known telecom and mobile network operators, network service providers, research institutes, and enterprises to delve into new optical fibre network technologies and applications in the AI+ era.
Speeches and Key Messages
Xiong Zhuang, President of FNCAP and Chief Scientist of YOFC, delivered a speech at the conference. Xiong stated that this is the second time FNCAP has partnered with YOFC to host an industry exchange meeting in Optics Valley of China, following the FTTH APAC Conference 2019. FNCAP is committed to promoting the widespread adoption of fibre networks.
In the AI+ era, the integration of AI and fibre networks has ushered in numerous possibilities, enhancing efficiency and reliability while facilitating the emergence of new services and applications. The synergy between AI and fibre networks is driving a fresh wave of technological progress. As an industry association, FNCAP will continue to give full play to its bridging role, establishing more platforms for industry exchanges and collaborations that promote future connectivity across the Asia-Pacific region.
Zhuang Dan, Executive Director and President of YOFC, delivered a welcoming speech, expressing gratitude to FNCAP for its support. He emphasized that AI advancement is driving new development opportunities for optical fibre networks. As AI applications grow more sophisticated and data intensive, the demand for robust fibre infrastructure increases. In turn, high-quality optical fibre networks empower AI systems to process and analyze data at unprecedented rates, unleashing innovation across many sectors.
Expert Insights on New Optical Networks
The conference focused on the theme “New Optical Network Technologies and Applications in the AI+ Era”. Experts from major operators shared insights into next-generation optical networks based on deployment needs:
- Ao Li, Chief Engineer of CAICT, highlighted that the AI+ era drives optical communication toward high speed, large capacity, all-optical networking, and intelligence.
- Zhang Chengliang, President of China Telecom Research Institute, introduced innovations such as intelligent middleware, open connection protocol, and AI computing power integration for FTTR development.
- Wang Guangquan, Chief Engineer of China Unicom Research Institute, presented a digital transformation solution incorporating digital twin technology for intelligent operation and maintenance.
- Gao Junshi, Director at China Mobile Group Design Institute, emphasized the need for higher bandwidth, stability, and intelligent remote maintenance capabilities.
YOFC’s Technological Showcases
As a global leader in optical communication, YOFC showcased cutting-edge optical fibre and transceiver products designed for high-speed and intelligent communication networks in the AI era.
Raadjkoemar Matai, Chief Scientist of Optical Fibre at YOFC, shared advancements in next-generation optical fibre products including:
- G.654.E fibre
- Multi-core fibre
- Few-mode fibre
- Hollow-core fibre
Chu Yuanliang, Chief Scientist of Optical Transceiver at YOFC, introduced high-performance optical interconnect technology for AI computing scenarios, along with optical transceiver innovations.
Industry Collaboration Highlights
- Wu Guangzhe from State Grid shared advancements in multi-dimensional perception fusion for power optical cable networks.
- Melanie Germentil from InfiniVAN discussed submarine cable network projects in the Philippines.
- Nishiguchi Yuki from Senko HK/China presented on responsible and sustainable AI development.
Experts from Huawei, China Telecommunication Technology Labs, and ZTE also contributed insights into key optical network technologies and applications.
Looking Ahead
Originating from the invention of optical fibre, optical networks have evolved alongside advancements in ICT, and now face greater opportunities in the AI digital era. With continued global collaboration, optical network technology will increasingly empower AI development and applications, ultimately fostering widespread social prosperity.
