By Oystein Bergmann, Correspondent Scandinavia

Nokia, Ericsson, II-VI, Lumentum and Sumitomo Electric have published a joint technical paper making the case for reducing the wide choice of Mobile Optical Pluggables (MOPA) used to connect cell sites to fiber networks. The two telco equipment makers and three optics suppliers behind the paper have recommended predefined optical blueprints that help operators speed up time to market using a common list of optical pluggables in a market worth US$500 million per year.

With its almost limitless capacity performance, fiber is essential for mobile network evolution with many operators choosing to deploy fiber-based technologies for transport within their 5G network architecture.

The first-time joint industry initiative, published in time for the Optical Networking and Communication Conference & Exhibition, lays out a set of Mobile Optical Blueprints which describe the most optimized solutions of optical pluggables and passive optical components. Recommendations include optical characteristics such as data rates, reach, power, wavelengths as well as mechanical characteristics such as form factor, heat dissipation and operational temperature.

Transport Networks and Components at Omdia Ian Redpath Practice Leader said:  “In a 5G world, optical pluggables will be utilized to connect cell sites to the network core. Network operators are currently challenged with assessing many pluggable variations, increasing their qualification work load and slowing time to deploy. MOPA will streamline efforts for the connectivity community, enabling cost reductions and reducing time to deploy.”

CTO Nokia Fixed Networks Stefaan Vanhastel said: “Fiber is a critical component of 5G rollouts and provides unmatched capacity for 5G transport. A clear overview of available optics strategies makes it easier to design and deploy 5G networks. We are pleased to be joining forces with Ericsson, II-VI, Lumentum and Sumitomo Electric on this vital initiative which will make the choice for fiber even more compelling in the transport domain.”