Anritsu Corporation, a leader in communications test and measurement solutions, has announced that the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan (NAOJ) has selected its 400G Tester and Optical Spectrum Analyzer MS9740B to evaluate a new data transmission system (DTS) for the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), located in Chile. The Network Master Pro MT1040A of the 400G Tester was specifically used to evaluate the DTS communication function with 1.6 Tbps data transmission.
Enhancing ALMA’s Communication Capabilities
ALMA, a collaborative project involving 22 countries and territories, is a world-renowned radio telescope providing groundbreaking astronomical insights since 2011. NAOJ, deeply involved in ALMA’s operations, is partnering with the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) in the United States to develop a next-generation communication system. This effort includes transferring large volumes of observational data between ALMA’s antennas and its correlator supercomputer, using the 400ZR standard. The 1.6 Tbps DTS is part of a roadmap to maintain ALMA’s leading role in astronomical research through the 2030s.
Key Technologies Selected by NAOJ
To achieve the high-speed communication required for the DTS, NAOJ selected two critical tools from Anritsu:
Network Master Pro MT1040A
- 400ZR compatibility: Enables high-capacity data transmission by combining 400 Gbps speeds with wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) technology.
- Real-time insights: Displays physical layer measurement results at one-second intervals, providing detailed evaluations of data transmission quality.
- Versatility: Supports transport standards ranging from 10 Mbps to 400 Gbps, offering a robust platform for testing.
Optical Spectrum Analyzer MS9740B
- High-precision optical monitoring: Tracks the optical wavelength of transmission signals during DTS evaluations.
- Wide wavelength range: Covers 600 nm to 1750 nm, ensuring comprehensive optical signal analysis.
- Fast and accurate: Offers a wide dynamic range and fast sweep speeds for efficient evaluation.
These tools are instrumental in testing the DTS, ensuring reliable data transmission and reducing potential communication issues.
Advancing Astronomical Research
The Wideband Sensitivity Upgrade (WSU) reflects a global effort to enhance ALMA’s capabilities. Anritsu’s tools will play a pivotal role in this process, helping improve the telescope’s performance and enabling the transfer of vast astronomical datasets. These advancements will contribute to unraveling the mysteries of the universe and advancing scientific discovery.
What is 400ZR?
The 400ZR standard is a transceiver interface standard widely used for Data Center Interconnect (DCI). It enables high-capacity data transmission by combining 400 Gbps transmission speeds with wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) technology. By supporting CFEC error correction, 400ZR ensures reliable data transfer over distances up to 80 km, making it ideal for ALMA’s communication needs.
About ALMA
Since its inception in 2011, ALMA has provided critical insights into the formation of the universe. The ALMA Development Roadmap outlines a comprehensive plan to enhance its capabilities through projects like the WSU, ensuring the telescope remains at the forefront of astronomical research.
For more information on Anritsu’s solutions and ALMA, please click here.
Source: Anritsu Corporation | Photo Credit: NAOJ
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