KDDI, Cisco Systems and Fujitsu have announced the commencement of full-scale operations for the metro network on Oct. 1, 2023. The regional network combines the internet protocol (IP) layer network with the optical transmission layer network, creating a more streamlined operational experience.
The metro network features a configuration that integrates the IP layer and optical transmission layer by using Cisco NCS5500 series routers, which can directly transmit and receive optical signals for wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM), and Fujitsu’s 1FINITY series open line system (OLS), which can be connected to other companies’ products through an open interface. This approach makes it possible to reduce the number of devices compared to a conventional configuration that connects a router and a transponder for WDM, reducing power consumption by approximately 40%.
The new configuration also makes it easier to expand capacity, enabling rapid response to increases in communications traffic. KDDI plans to deploy the metro network across Japan by the end of 2028.
Background
With the nationwide rollout of 5G services in Japan, which are now widely used, the number of users of video and other data-intensive services is increasing and the volume of communications is growing rapidly.
KDDI aims to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions in its non-consolidated business activities by FY2030, which will make it necessary to reduce power consumption throughout its business. The rapid expansion of network infrastructure to cope with the increases in communication volume presents an ongoing challenge to this objective.
Features of the metro network
KDDI has introduced this configuration to its metro network in some areas of Japan starting in 2021. As KDDI has confirmed stable operation, it will start full-scale operations to accommodate multiple services, such as 5G, au HIKARI and corporate virtual private network (VPN). The au HIKARI phone service provides a high-quality and affordable telephone service that utilises KDDI’s advanced Contents Delivery Network (CDN).
Reduced power consumption and space-saving by fusion of IP layer and optical transmission layer
The new configuration eliminates the need for an enclosure to mount the WDM transponder, which was previously installed externally, reducing power consumption and saving equipment installation space. The WDM transponder is miniaturised into an optical module and mounted in a Cisco router. The optical module itself has been optimised for low-power consumption through improvements in the semiconductor manufacturing process.
Openness enables rapid facility expansion
The Fujitsu OLS 1FINITY series adopted for the metro network’s inter-station transmission lines supports open interfaces, allowing connection to a variety of equipment, including products from other manufacturers. Therefore, when expanding the transmission capacity between stations, the capacity can be expanded only by adding hardware or changing settings on the router side. This enables a quick response to future growth in communication traffic.
KDDI is promoting the construction of an all-photonic network that can achieve high capacity with low power consumption, whereas the convergence of the IP layer and optical transmission layer represents the first step toward an all-photonic network. KDDI will continue to realise sustainable networks and contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions by introducing architectures that contribute to the reduction of power consumption and by making networks open.
Cisco is expanding its technologies for network sophistication, such as simplification and automation of network and device operations, to realise an inclusive future for people in the Beyond 5G/6G era. It also develops technologies and ways of working that are more sustainable for the environment, as well as for business.
Fujitsu is promoting the creation of networks for the future, from 5G and 6G technologies to optical backbone networks. It also supports telecommunications carriers in becoming carbon neutral by deploying products in the market that realise low power consumption in networks.
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