Cost-efficient high-speed components for 100 gigabit ethernet transmission on one wavelength only: results of the HECTO project

In 2010, the standard for 100GbE was approved, which specifies the transmission of 100 Gb/s via 4 wavelength channels of 25 Gb/s each. A solution based on a 100 Gb/s single wavelength channel is capable of significant cost reductions should the required components be available. Within the HECTO project, we developed components suitable for single-wavelength 100 Gb/s transmission. In this article, the project is described - its organization, objectives, possible impacts, and results - including the successful demonstration in a final field trial. A complete ETDM system utilizing the monolithically integrated transmitter and receiver modules developed in the project was built to transmit 112 Gb/s over 42 km standard single-mode fiber. Finally, we attempt an outlook on the prospective development of Ethernet standardization beyond 100GbE.