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The 2024 OFC Conference and Exhibition
Spotlighting a Thriving and Expanding Optical Communications and Networking Industry
The 2024 Optical Fiber Communications Conference and Exhibition (OFC) exceeded all expectations and solidified its status as the premier global event for optical networking and communications.
With 12,500 registrants from 74 countries, a showcase of more than 630 exhibiting companies (23% more than 2023), and hundreds of sessions with industry-renowned and invited speakers, OFC 2024 was an unparalleled gathering for industry professionals and the global hub for innovation and collaboration in the field.
Topics such as 800ZR, Coherent PON, Linear Pluggable Optics (LPO), multicore fiber, artificial intelligence (AI), data center technology, quantum networking and more captured the interest of industry leaders, experts, academia, media, analysts and students worldwide, facilitating the exploration of the latest advancements in optical technology.
Plenary Session
Esteemed industry luminaries Anita Döhler, CEO of NGMN Alliance; Inder Monga, Executive Director of ESnet; and David Richardson, Partner Researcher at Microsoft, headlined the event. These distinguished speakers explored cutting-edge technologies, including quantum networking and next-generation networks, providing invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of optical communications.
Döhler outlined a comprehensive framework for understanding 6G cellular networks, even amid ongoing 5G implementation. She explained that interoperability enabled by standards is foundational to the success of any generation of a cellular network. The NGNM Alliance is championing this cause, providing vision and leadership in the telecommunications industry to ultimately provide an outstanding end-user experience.
Monga underscored why networks are crucial for science. From managing the vast data streams produced by particle accelerators to telescopes imaging the universe on the largest scales, collaborative data sharing fosters scientific breakthroughs. This collaborative approach to science is foundational to Lawrence Berkeley National Labs and plays a crucial role in the development of future quantum networks.
Richardson explained the significant advancements facilitated by hollow fiber technology, highlighting an increase in transmission speed, a 33% reduction in latency and an ultra-low loss rate of just 0.11dB/km. He shared that Microsoft is currently integrating this technology into its network infrastructure, paving the way for data centers to be situated farther from data hotspots, thereby reducing expenses and unlocking new logistical opportunities.
Exhibition
The sold-out exhibition was a highlight, featuring more than 630 industry-leading companies representing the entire ecosystem of optical communications and networking. Attendees had the opportunity to explore groundbreaking technologies, innovative optical components, devices, systems, test equipment, software and specialty fiber products.
As a worldwide event, OFC provides startups with the opportunity to debut while industry leaders set the pace for the future. It includes unveiling pioneering trends that will define the industry’s trajectory and offer solutions to critical global issues such as quantum networking, artificial intelligence (AI) and data-center connectivity.
Sustainability
There was a notable emphasis on energy efficiency and showcasing solutions to address the escalating power consumption challenges in data centers, particularly due to the expansion of AI-driven applications. Technology demonstrations, product launches and discussions, including a special media and analyst invite-only session featuring a panel of thought leaders, explored innovative technologies such as linear drive pluggable optics (LPO), co-packaged optics (CPO), optical switching and other emerging solutions aimed at reducing power consumption in optical interfaces within the network.
OFCnet
OFCnet, the live high-speed optical network introduced in 2022, played a pivotal role in facilitating collaboration between exhibitors, research laboratories and commercial ventures. With expanded quantum demonstrations, OFCnet showcased emerging technologies from research to commercial deployment, underscoring its significance in driving optical networking excellence.
Show Floor Programming
The business-focused show-floor programming provided valuable insights into current market trends and emerging technologies. Market Watch, the Network Operator Summit, and the Data Center Summit offered perspectives from industry leaders and experts, highlighting the industry’s current environment and future prospects.
Interoperability Demonstrations
Interoperability demonstrations led by organizations such as Ethernet Alliance, OIF and Open ROADM showcased breakthrough technologies and the latest in industry standards. Live demonstrations, some boasting the largest involvement ever, spanned a range of technology areas, including 800G solutions, OpenZR+ optics, energy-efficient interfaces and Common Management Interface Specification (CMIS) implementations.
Online Access to Content
To meet the unique needs of a global audience, OFC was held in a hybrid format with in-person and virtual components.
All technical program sessions and show floor programs are available on-demand to Full Conference technical registrants (in-person or virtual).