Full-Band OTN Leader: Ushering in a New Chapter for Optical Networks

The digital wave is surging forward, with technologies like AI, big data, and intelligent manufacturing advancing rapidly. This explosive growth in network traffic is driving optical networks—the "invisible arteries" of digital civilization—toward three trends: ultra-high bandwidth transport demands pushing the transition from 400G to Tbit-level systems, deep integration of large AI models enabling higher autonomy, and exploration of hollow-core fiber transport systems for ultra-high bandwidth, ultra-long distance, and ultra-low latency transmission.   

In this transformation, enhancing system capacity is key. To achieve faster speeds without reducing wavelengths, optical networks have expanded their operational spectrum to both C and L bands. Current C/L segregated systems still face challenges in wavelength scheduling, integration, and low-carbon operation. To address these, ZTE has introduced a full-band OTN solution that offers ultra-large capacity, full-band scheduling, and a minimalist architecture for an improved customer experience.

The solution combines 12 THz integration with flexible shaping algorithms to achieve a single-fiber hundred-terabit transport system, boosting capacity by 25% and supporting massive data transport. With a tunable spectral width twice that of the industry standard, it enables C+L full-band non-blocking scheduling, increasing resource utilization by 100%, eliminating wavelength waste, and enhancing network O&M. The full-band integrated architecture reduces the number of optical boards by 20% and spare-part types by 50%, saving space, lowering CAPEX, and enabling a leaner, greener operational model.

Together with operators, ZTE has conducted a series of C+L full-band OTN lab and live network tests, setting multiple records and providing crucial references for future network deployment and optimization. Looking ahead, ZTE will continue open cooperation and innovation with industry partners to drive standardization and scenario development, building a more efficient, flexible, and reliable optical network ecosystem as a solid "optical foundation" for the global digital economy.