Chunghwa Telecom showcases optical duplexer innovation with all-photonics network

Chunghwa Telecom's Laboratories has unveiled an innovative architecture that combines APN with Optical Duplexer, utilizing its proprietary "External Optical Path Converter (EC)" technology. This advancement has been recognized by the IOWN Global Forum and is positioned alongside major companies such as NTT and Fujitsu^[1].

The IOWN Global Forum is dedicated to advancing all-photonics network (APN) technologies and applications. The breakthrough of EC technology brings all-photonics networks closer to the edge of customer access, accelerating the development of high-speed, high-capacity, low-latency, and low-power broadband communications. This progress supports the growth of next-generation ICT network infrastructure and integrates APN in everyday life.

Combine APN with Optical Duplexer, Overcoming Optical Transmission Limitations to Enhance Mobile Communication Quality

The "Optical Duplexer" featured in the "APN with Optical Duplexer Innovative Architecture" employs EC technology to effectively eliminate time synchronization errors that arise from asymmetric optical transmission paths. This improvement enhances 5G communication quality. Moreover, EC technology transforms traditional dual-core fiber to a single-core fiber architecture, significantly reducing fiber construction costs. This technology uses passive optical components, requires no power supply, and facilitates easy installation (plug-and-play), greatly improving construction efficiency while providing energy-saving and carbon-reduction benefits.

EC Technology Gains Domestic and International Recognition, Elevating the Domestic Network Communication Industry

EC technology has obtained dual patents in Taiwan and Japan and won the highest honor in the communications category, the Platinum Award, at the 2024 Taiwan Innotech Expo^[2]. Furthermore, it has been practically applied in Chunghwa Telecom's 5G network deployment, with technology licensed to Taiwanese manufacturers for commercial product development. This innovation helps Taiwanese companies acquire international-level technology and opens up new avenues for growth and development, enhancing industry competitiveness and jointly exploring global market opportunities.

Dr. Tien-Tsai Su, President of Chunghwa Telecom's Laboratories, stated, "Chunghwa Telecom joined the IOWN Global Forum in 2020, becoming the first member from Taiwan and the only board member. The all-photonics network advocated by IOWN Global will address the demand for next-generation ICT service, including increased transmission bandwidth and reduced latency, while also enhancing energy efficiency. The research achievements of Chunghwa Telecom Laboratories have gained international recognition, and we will actively collaborate with the domestic network communication industry to bolster Taiwan's competitive advantage in the global ICT industry, jointly advancing the implementation and development of all-photonics network technology with an eye on the international market."