Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1472963
56 I ICT TODAY FURTHER INNOVATION AND CONCLUSION Further innovations are destined for the physical and higher communications layers, especially for the optical fiber infrastructure and the machines and tools that support its installation and maintenance. Hollow core fiber (HCF) and multi-core fiber (MCF) are examples of major fiber innovations with promising results for the ICT industry. The HCF is already deployed in some high-frequency trading networks, and aggregate data transmission testing using MCF has been published. The HCF transmits signals at the speed of light in a vacuum, which provides significant time benefits over long distances. The MCF offers unmatched signal density through its unique spatial division multiplexing strategy of multiple waveguides or singlemode cores within a single strand of optical fiber. Fusion splicing of these fibers has been tested and proven. However, other technologies, such as active transceivers friendly to MCF, need further development before a full solution offering is possible. New connector types, cable types, sensing systems, active components, and other smart technologies are AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY: Lucas Mays is a product manager for field fusion splicers and accessories at AFL. He earned a Bachelor of Science in physics, focusing on optical sciences, from the University of Louisville. From there, he immediately entered the optical fiber industry, first as a fusion splicer tech- nician and category cable installer, then as an engineer working in product R&D. Prior to his role in product management, he was an applications engineer at AFL, helping to solve the day-to-day fusion splicing challenges experienced in the field. Lucas has multiple industry published white papers and articles on the various installation challenges and advancements in the physical layer. His favorite aspect of his work at AFL is enabling customer success with quality products and support. Lucas can be reached at lucas.mays@aflglobal.com. Fusion splicing has evolved into a smart capable technology. Only a few examples of smart infrastructure and the supporting cast have been discussed. The possibilities are nearly limitless as a new generation of communications speeds and latency are emerging. This fundamental layer promises exciting and unseen possibilities as industries that utilize ICT technologies develop smart infrastruc- tures and smart applications. As a network designer, planner, or installer, staying abreast of industry trends is necessary to keep up with the competition and to get ahead. More importantly, continued learning and usage of the innovations discussed will better serve humanity's progress from the prominent position the ICT industry holds. in development, as many companies heavily invest in research and development activities to further advance the ICT industry as it supports the connectivity of smart infrastructure.