Matsushita transmits data at 12.5 Gbit per second

Matsushita said it has set a new world record in data transmission speeds. Using an 850 nm AlGaAs/GaAs VCSEL (Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser) operating at 8 mA, the company claims it sent and received data at a speed of 12.5 Gbit per second.

The company plans to use the technology for low-cost optical communication such as plastic fiber communication and spatial light transmission. Panasonic, Matsushita’s most known commercial brand, will begin shipping two types of surface emitting lasers, a 2.5 Gbit and a 12.5 Gbit version, in early 2006, according to the manufacturer. (THG)