Research in Photonics
October 29, 2015
The 2015 Student Day focused on Research in Photonics. The day consisted of presentations, guided tours and a chance to interact with researches at our Purple Pub.
Presentations
NGPON2 Wavelength Set Multiplexing
Francois Fredricx from Alcatel-Lucent Fixed Networks talked about NGPON2 and new developments in optical fiber access. This technology attains higher bandwidths by introducing the latest, most powerful optics (i.e. lasers and receivers) to the access network and simultaneously transmitting distinct wavelength laser light into the physical fiber using a Wavelength Multiplexer-Demultiplexer. The technique requires optics capable of adjusting to several possible wavelengths. This project addresses the challenge of maintaining affordability of customer equipment.
Future Technologies in Optical Access
Yannick Lefevre presented the future optical access technologies in development at Bell Labs. His talk addressed the way optical access can enable gigabit data rates over copper at a low cost (XG.fast) and how future 40G TDM-PONs can be realized at the cost of 10G-PON networks (XLG-PON).
Alcatel-Lucent Belgium Scientific Award Ceremony
Alcatel-Lucent attaches great importance to promoting research in information and communication technology. Through the patronage of Alcatel-Lucent Belgium, the Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO) / Fonds de la Recherche Scientifique – FNRS (F.R.S.-FNRS) award the annual Scientific Prize Alcatel-Lucent Belgium in recognition of an original PhD thesis on information and communication technology. This year Thomas Van Vaerenbergh is the laureate with his PhD thesis entitled: "All-Optical Spiking Neurons Integrated on a Photonic Chip"
Guided Tours
Guests were guided through the Alcatel-Lucent premises to look behind the scenes and meet employees. The tour included a visit to the lab, demonstrations, an informal chat with the GenY-ers, and an overview of internships and current vacancies.
Purple Pub
At the end of the day, guests had the opportunity to join the Purple Pub. This is an internal networking opportunity where Alcatel-Lucent Belgium employees gather to mingle in a relaxing atmosphere.
