Technology

Accelerating UK’s Fibre Expansion, HFCL Showcases High-density Advanced Fibre Solutions

Published

1 week ago

September 12, 2024

High-fibre density cables designed to accelerate gigabit-capable network builds and reduce costs by minimising the need for additional duct installations, ideal for ambitious projects like Building Digital UK (BDUK)Innovative cable design increases fibre count by 50% within the same 2.4mm diameter used for 24F cables, driving higher efficiencyNew aerial cable technology approved by Openreach’s Physical Infrastructure Access (PIA), enabling seamless connectivity even in extremely dense environmentsHFCL’s UK offices and warehousing facilities along with local expertise deliver industry-leading service, ensuring sustainable full-fibre deployment and unparalleled customer support

LONDON, Sept. 12, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — HFCL, one of the leading technology enterprises and integrated next-gen communications product and solution providers, yesterday showcased its latest range of innovative high-density blown fibre solutions at the Connected Britain 2024 event.

The solutions include a comprehensive range of products including – a Compact Fibre Units (CFU) with capacities of up to 12 fibres, available in sizes between 1.1mm and 1.6mm diameter. A 36F Fibre Blown Nano family cable with a 2.4mm diameter. And a new Openreach’s PIA approved 1F Aerial Drop Cable, with 1mm diameter, has also been introduced. Together, these offerings will enable UK operators to connect customers more quickly, cost-effectively, and sustainably.

These new additions, further expand HFCL’s extensive optical fibre solution portfolio, paving the way for advanced fibre infrastructure and faster broadband rollouts in the UK, targeting Building Digital UK (BDUK) initiative.

To accelerate digital connectivity in the UK, HFCL has unveiled a tailored portfolio of 1F-12F compact fibre units (CFUs). These CFUs feature a low-friction HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) jacket, designed for efficient, long-distance installations in microducts. Capable of being jetted up to 1km at speeds exceeding 80 meters per minute, they deliver exceptional performance. The 12F and 6F units are ideal for low-fibre count distribution networks using small microducts, such as FTTA networks, while the 1F, 2F, and 4F units are perfect for final access even in the smallest microducts. Available in recyclable cardboard pans or reusable/ recyclable spools, with lengths up to 6km, these ultra-compact fibre units also lower transportation costs per fibre-kilometre, reducing environmental impact and the carbon footprint associated with network construction.

Another new component of HFCL’s end-to-end fibre solution is the addition of a 36F version to its already successful 2-24 Fibre Blown Nano family, with a diameter range of 2mm – 2.4mm. This new version maintains the same 2.4mm diameter as the 24F cable, incorporating customised low-friction jacketing and HFCL’s world-class 200-micron single-mode optical fibre. This cable is uniquely designed to minimise fibre count in the smallest microducts, increasing the maximum available fibre count in a 2.4mm unit by 50%.

The increased fibre density enables operators to maximise capacity within existing duct networks, avoiding the need for costly civil works to install new ducts. This higher packing density is also advantageous for operators leasing duct space, as it allows costs to be distributed across a larger number of fibres. HFCL has consciously implemented eco-friendly measures in the manufacturing of this cable, offering sustainable benefits by minimising the use of plastics and gel per fibre-kilometre and utilising recyclable reels.

The PIA approved 3.5mm 1F aerial drop cable brings a cost effective and high-quality solution to customers. With Openreach’s PIA approval, telecom providers can leverage existing infrastructure to install this 1F aerial drop cable. It is compatible with two leading clamps and works seamlessly with top Aerial Subscriber Nodes (ASN). An ASN is a crucial component in network infrastructure that enables last-mile connectivity, typically in rural or hard-to-reach areas. Mounted on aerial cable poles, it facilitates high-speed internet access by connecting subscribers to the main fibre optic network or wireless network.

Speaking on the launch of the fibre solutions, Mr. Harsh Pagay, Executive President, OF & OFC, HFCL, said, “With over 35 years of experience, HFCL has emerged as a market leader in providing telecom infrastructure, enabling leading telecom operators and ISPs in their digital transformation journeys. With our end-to-end optical solution offerings from fibre, fibre cables, and optical interconnect kits, we are a partner of choice by our customers world over for years. With the UK government investing in nationwide infrastructure upgrade, the UK market holds huge potential for HFCL in supporting the growing appetite of 5G networks and single-build FTTH deployments. Our unwavering commitment towards innovation, customer-centricity, and building future-ready infrastructure, positions us a trusted partner in reshaping the future and making significant contributions to the UK’s digital landscape.”

Rob Gilbert, VP- UK & Ireland, HFCL, said, “We are excited to launch our innovative, next-gen Compact Fibre Units and extended Nano cable range in the UK, one of the leading global economies and a priority market for HFCL. We aim to share our expertise, resources, and technology (directly or via our trusted partners) to help telecom operators in the UK extend the reach of their network infrastructure and digital services to remote and underserved areas. Our experienced UK-based team, along with local offices and warehousing facilities, is focused on developing eco-friendly solutions, underscoring our commitment to supporting full fibre, yet sustainable, deployment in the UK.”

For FY 2024-25, Building Digital UK (BDUK) is focused on expanding gigabit-capable connectivity to hard-to-reach areas across the UK. This initiative supports the government’s goal of achieving at least 85% gigabit coverage by 2025, through a mix of commercial builds and subsidised projects. BDUK also aims to extend gigabit-capable broadband nationwide by 2030.

This solution range launched by HFCL is designed to meet the network requirements of telcos and multiple system operators (MSOs) deploying FTTx services in microducts, targeting markets in the UK, Europe, and North America. HFCL’s innovative approach and focus on sustainability set these products apart from competitors, offering superior performance with unmatched customer service.

About HFCL

HFCL is a leading technology company specializing in creating digital networks for telcos, enterprises, and governments. Over the years, HFCL has emerged as a trusted partner offering sustainable high-tech solutions with a commitment to providing the latest technology products to its customers. HFCL’s strong R&D expertise coupled with its global system integration services and decades of experience in fibre optics enable it to deliver innovative digital network solutions required for the most advanced networks.

The Company’s in-house R&D Centres located in India at Gurgaon, Bengaluru and Hyderabad along with invested R&D houses and other R&D collaborators at different locations in India and abroad, innovate a futuristic range of technology products and solutions. HFCL has developed capabilities to provide premium quality Optical Fibre and Optical Fibre Cables, state- of-the-art telecom products including 5G Radio Access Network (RAN) products, 5G Transport Products, Wi-Fi Systems (Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), Unlicensed Band Radios, Switches, Routers and Defence electronics products.

The Company has state-of-the-art Optical Fibre and Optical Fibre Cable manufacturing plants in Hyderabad, and Optical Fibre Cable manufacturing plants in Goa and at its subsidiary HTL Limited in Chennai.

HFCL is a partner of choice for its customers across India, UK, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, Africa, and North America. HFCL’s commitment to quality and environmental sustainability inspires it to innovate solutions for the ever- evolving customer needs.

Visit www.hfcl.com and https://hfcl.com/ofc/en-gb/ for more information.

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Technology

Supreme Court Justice Michelle O’Bonsawin Joins Elementary Students for Live Virtual Q&A and Chapter One Storybook Reading on Sep. 24

Published

7 hours ago

September 21, 2024

The Honourable Justice Michelle O’Bonsawin, the first Indigenous person appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada, will join elementary students in a live virtual Q&A on September 24, from 1:00-2:15 pm ET, following a reading of the children’s storybook, “Daanis the Judge.” This event is hosted by Chapter One, a children’s literacy charity, to commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Lawyer Victoria Perrie, writer of “Daanis the Judge,” will read aloud the inspiring story, which is based on Justice O’Bonsawin’s remarkable journey. Illustrator EJ Miller-Larson will join Justice O’Bonsawin and Perrie in a moderated Q&A session with over 1900 elementary students.

TORONTO, Sept. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — The Honourable Justice Michelle O’Bonsawin, the first Indigenous person to be appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada, will join elementary students in a live virtual Q&A following a live online reading of the original children’s storybook “Daanis the Judge,” on September 24, from 1:00-2:15 pm ET. The event will be hosted by Chapter One to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Chapter One is a children’s literacy charity that provides 1:1 high-impact reading tutoring and co-creates original storybooks with participating communities nationwide.

“I am very humbled and proud to be a part of the book, “Daanis the Judge.” My hope is that this book will inspire youth to dream big and know that anything is possible. I am evidence of that!” – Justice Michelle O’Bonsawin

Métis-Cree lawyer Victoria Perrie, who wrote “Daanis the Judge,” will lead the live reading. Students will ask questions during a moderated Q&A with Justice O’Bonsawin, Perrie, and illustrator EJ Miller-Larson, of the Fond du Lac Band and Oneida Nation.

“Daanis the Judge” was inspired by Justice O’Bonsawin’s trailblazing career. It tells the story of a young student, Daanis, who dreams of becoming a judge after learning about Justice O’Bonsawin’s achievements.

The story is part of Chapter One’s growing collection of original children’s e-storybooks, co-created with Indigenous writers, illustrators and communities. The e-storybooks celebrate Indigenous experiences and perspectives, and feature audio clips of Elders pronouncing foundational words in their communities’ first languages. All e-storybooks are provided for free through the Global Free Library.

About Chapter One

Chapter One (chapterone.org/ca) is a global nonprofit and registered Canadian charity that provides one-on-one early literacy tutoring programs to 2,300 children in eight provinces and territories across Canada. Its proven “short burst” high-impact tutoring approach—five-minute sessions, three to five times a week—is ideally suited to young children’s attention spans and aligns with the Science of Reading. In one of the largest randomized control trials conducted on early literacy instruction, researchers from Stanford University found that 7 out of 10 students receiving Chapter One high impact tutoring achieved phonics benchmarks by the end of Kindergarten, compared to 32% in the control group.

Children at risk of reading failure receive 1:1 reading support from trained, paid paraprofessional tutors through Chapter One’s online reading platform and custom software. Programs are delivered in-person and virtually in classrooms through agreements with schools and school boards, and at home on families’ smartphones, connecting struggling readers with individualized reading support—regardless of location and circumstance, even in some of the most geographically remote communities in Canada.

In addition to its tutoring programs, Chapter One collaborates with Indigenous communities to co-create children’s stories that represent the communities’ priorities and experiences and advance language revitalization efforts. The e-storybooks are provided for free online, as part of the Global Free Library.

Event details

The Live Virtual Q&A and Reading of “Daanis the Judge” with the Honourable Justice O’Bonsawin takes place on Tuesday, September 24, from 1:00-2:15 pm ET via Zoom. The event is open to elementary classes (Grades 1-6). Teachers/principals must register their classes in advance using this link.

Media Contact

Denise Orosa, Chapter One Canada, 1 4374224825, denise.orosa@chapterone.org, chapterone.org/ca

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SOURCE Chapter One Canada

Technology

PEAC Institute Launches “24 Hour Pause for Peace: A Global Concert”

Published

9 hours ago

September 21, 2024

24 Hour Pause for Peace Will Be the Largest Peace Initiative Ever Worldwide, Unifying 96 Countries on Six Continents Through Music

MONTCLAIR, N.J., Sept. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — On this International Day of Peace, PEAC Institute, part of the 2017 Nobel Peace Prize winning team, has launched “24 Hour Pause for Peace: A Global Concert,” the largest peace initiative ever organized worldwide through music.

“Now, we need companies, government entities, other nonprofits and donors who care about our cause for peace to join us in lifting up the biggest event of this generation.”

On October 4, 2025, this ground-breaking program will activate a massive network of youth ensembles that spans 96 countries and territories across six continents and host two 24-hour commercial festivals featuring some of the biggest acts in music and entertainment. This extraordinary day-long event will be live-streamed globally, allowing millions to participate simultaneously.

“It has been 40 years since Live Aid and We Are the World historically unified and changed the world through music,” said Rebecca Irby, president and CEO of PEAC Institute. “With our planet riddled with post-pandemic fatigue, climate chaos, unsettling wars and more, we believe it is time to create a new trajectory for humanity by inviting everyone around the globe to a 24 hour pause for peace to enjoy the sounds of music and feel the transformative power of human connection,” Irby explained.

Additionally, 24 Hour Pause for Peace plans to amass more than 100 million ambassadors to sign an appeal to the United Nations calling for a 24 hour ceasefire during the children’s concerts and commercial music events. All countries are welcome to participate with no exceptions. One of Pause for Peace’s core beliefs is everyone has the right to be equally respected and heard, particularly in collectively calling for peace.

“Achieving this ambitious global endeavor requires the support and participation from the most impactful brands, organizations, and influential leaders, artists and celebrities,” said Jennifer McKenna, 24 Hour Pause for Peace CEO.

Pause for Peace is a $165 million global initiative. Currently, it is in its first phase of raising seed capital through consumer brand-aligned sponsorships and private donors. Funding for the program is tax-deductible through PEAC’s 501(c)(3) status.

“We have assembled an exceptional executive team of change agents in entertainment, production, consumer marketing, charitable development and global security to make this extraordinary, worldwide peace event happen.” McKenna added. “Now, we need companies, government entities, other nonprofits and donors who care about our cause for peace to join us in lifting up the biggest event of this generation.” To become involved in 24 Hour Pause for Peace: A Global Concert as a sponsor, partner or donor, sign up to be an Ambassador, or for more information, go to www.24hourpauseforpeace.org.

About PEAC Institute

PEAC Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in the United States. PEAC stands for peace, education, art and communication. It was formed in 2016 through a campaign with partner organization, International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN), which garnered a 2017 Nobel Peace Prize. PEAC now holds special consultative status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations and has a global presence working with countries and territories worldwide to reach the most marginalized youth through art and communication activities to help them explore and express. For more information on PEAC Institute, go to www.peacinstitute.org.

Media Contact

Chadwick Boyd, Pause for Peace, 1 4046060611, chadwick@24hourpauseforpeace.org, www.24hourpauseforpeace.org

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SOURCE Pause for Peace

Technology

Global Times: China opens 12 nuclear research facilities to global scientists

Published

10 hours ago

September 21, 2024

The involved facilities span areas such as basic nuclear research, isotope production, nuclear environment simulation, equipment testing, and radioactive waste treatment and disposal.

VIENNA, Sept. 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — China will open 12 nuclear research facilities and testing platforms to international scientists and institutions to enhance global cooperation, a senior Chinese official said here on Monday.

These include the China Advanced Research Reactor, the new-generation tokamak device Huanliu-3, and the Beishan Underground Research Laboratory, Liu Jing, vice chairman of the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA), said at a meeting on the sidelines of the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) annual general conference.

The facilities span areas such as basic nuclear research, isotope production, nuclear environment simulation, equipment testing, and radioactive waste treatment and disposal.

Monday’s meeting, themed “Share for Development,” was organized by the CAEA to promote international cooperation in nuclear technology research and development, as China marks the 40th anniversary of its accession to the IAEA.

Yu Jianfeng, chairman of China National Nuclear Corporation, said at the event that the company aims to deepen cooperation with the IAEA and expand international collaboration. He expressed hope that opening China’s nuclear research facilities will contribute to advancing nuclear technology globally.

IAEA’s Deputy Director General Mikhail Chudakov commended China’s remarkable achievements in nuclear energy development and highlighted the long-standing, fruitful relationship between the IAEA and the CAEA.

Welcoming China’s decision to open up more of its nuclear research and development facilities, Chudakov said the move will further strengthen the agency’s technical capacity to support its member states.

On Monday evening, the CAEA and China’s permanent mission to the United Nations (UN) and other international organizations in Vienna jointly held a reception at the UN headquarters in Vienna to celebrate the 40th anniversary of China’s accession to the IAEA. More than 200 participants, including IAEA representatives and foreign envoys to Vienna, attended the event.

Li Song, China’s permanent representative to the UN and other international organizations in Vienna, said at the reception that China and the IAEA have expanded practical cooperation and jointly promoted the development of nuclear energy over the past 40 years.

China, he said, will continue to strengthen collaboration with the IAEA and its member states to address emerging challenges in international security, safeguard the global non-proliferation regime, and promote the use of nuclear energy and technology for the benefit of the Global South.

At the reception, Liu, Li and IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi jointly unveiled a bronze statue of Qian Sanqiang, a renowned Chinese nuclear physicist and one of the founders of China’s nuclear industry.

The statue, donated by China, will be permanently displayed at the IAEA headquarters, alongside sculptures of Polish-French physicist Marie Curie and other prominent figures who have made significant contributions to the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

Contact: xutianshu@globaltimes.com.cn

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SOURCE Global Times