Note: Please enjoy this guest-blog post from our friends at Kortman, Inc.
Being part of the groundbreaking innovation of Optical LAN is very exciting. Similar to how the introduction of utility electricity in December 1880 first lit up Edison light bulbs later became the foundation of many modern applications, it’s amazing to see how Passive Optical LAN, created in the early 90s, has changed telecommunication networks.
As the demand for bandwidth escalated with the rise of the internet and the need to overcome distance limitations, utility and cable carriers responded by offering triple play services (internet, telephone, and TV). In 2007, Tellabs, in partnership with the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA), introduced the first enterprise Passive Optical LAN network at the Pentagon.
In the ensuing years, Passive Optical LAN has gained widespread acceptance, particularly among hospitality brands worldwide. Integrators have also embraced Optical LAN in private construction sectors like education and commercial offices. This technology enables the management of various intelligent devices and network solutions, supporting functions such as access control, surveillance, POE speakers, and BMS systems, and more. As manufacturers develop higher-power edge devices and optical network terminals, possibilities like POE lighting or high-power POE devices such as PTZ cameras operating seamlessly on POL networks are achievable.
For Kortman, like many other integrators, exploring new device applications in our lab is routine. After dedicating nearly 35 years of my career to the electrical side of our industry, witnessing the pivotal role of intelligent building advancements today is immensely gratifying. Leading our Intelligent Building team has been a rewarding challenge, and I’m fortunate to collaborate with a group of forward-thinking individuals dedicated to pioneering Optical LAN advancements for our organization.
Thank you for allowing me to participate…
Stephen Land, Director of Intelligent Building Systems at Kortman, Inc.
