Data transmission speeds are a hot topic in the digital world. From streaming high-definition content to powering smart cities, we rely heavily on the rapid transmission of data which in turn holds together our interconnected world. Although there have been global challenges in increasing speeds of data transmission, recent breakthroughs have pushed transmission speeds faster than ever, preparing the future for rapid, more reliable data transmission.
The Global Challenges of Broadband Speeds
Unfortunately, data transmission is not equal across country borders. As of this past February, the US ranked sixth fastest median internet speed in the world at 242.38 Mbps, which seems worlds ahead from ranking fifteenth at a mere 31 Mbps just seven years ago. Although the US has made noticeable strides, Singapore still holds the title of the world’s fastest internet at a median of 286.66 Mbps.
For the US, the disparity in data transmission times can be largely attributed to the lack of competition among major internet service providers (ISPs). With a handful of big players dominating the market, there’s little incentive for innovation or improvement in service quality. Globally, countries experiencing government tensions and budget restrictions, outdated technology, and poor infrastructure tend to feel the lag in data transmission speeds as well.
Data Transmission Speeds Get a Boost… Twice!
While some regions struggle with broadband speeds, researchers continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in data transmission in the hopes of both improving and making available these technologies. In March of 2024, researchers from Aston University in Birmingham UK, the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) in Japan, and Nokia Bell Labs in the US collaborated to hit a remarkable feat by transmitting 301 terabits of data 4.5 million times faster than the average home broadband of 69.4 Mbps. This was achieved by opening two new wavelength bands and accessing them via new devices called optical amplifiers and optical gain equalizers.
Although this was an incredible accomplishment, researchers wanted to pick up the pace even more – and they did just that. A few months later, the same research team beat their own record, transmitting 402 terabits of data through commercially available optical fiber. This time, using six bands versus the initial four used back in March.
The success in ramping up data transmission speeds- and then ramping them up further a second time- means an opportunity to revolutionize internet speeds and data center connectivity.
Benefits of Increasingly Rapid Data Transmission Speeds
Most of our modern world is dependent on the rate at which data can be transmitted, meaning more opportunities when data transmission speeds are faster and more reliable. Benefits such as improving connections of end users and keeping the cost of providing bandwidth down are thanks to the technology used in the experiment.
As forementioned, researchers widened the spectrum of bands used for sharing data, using six bands and accessing them simultaneously. These optical fibers are known as standard fiber, which are already greatly deployed worldwide, making it easier to improve speed and capacity while keeping broadband prices stable and accessible. The utilization of increasing capacity on already existing and deployed fiber optics also makes this breakthrough a greener solution to global connectivity. By not having to reinvest in new fibers and cables, the experiments have proven useful in prolonging the life of existing fiber networks and maintaining commercial value.
Data Transmission Is Speeding Off into the Future
As we look toward the future, the race for faster data transmission speeds shows no signs of slowing down. Researchers have been hard at work, focusing on increasing speeds while still being conscious of cost, capacity, and accessibility to robust fiber optic cables and networks. The cutting-edge research in data transmission offers a glimpse into a future where lightning-fast connectivity is the norm, transforming how we live, work, and interact by offering numerous benefits to consumers and providers alike.
With data transmission speeds affecting many facets of life and business, various sectors find success in the use of geospatial intelligence and telecommunications data. GeoTel offers 15 unique telecommunications datasets which include fiber maps, fiber-lit buildings, cell towers, and more, providing the insight necessary to make intelligent, location-based decisions. Contact GeoTel’s specialists for a personalized demo on how access to telecom data can benefit your organization today.
