Photonics for fibre and fixed wireless access

The NRC has created a unique laser technology that uses quantum dots or dashes, in contrast to the widely used quantum well semiconductor lasers. These quantum dot and dash lasers have the potential to enhance network performance, including transmission speed, while also lowering costs.

The HTSN Challenge program supports NRC collaboration with various universities and companies in this area, including the University of Ottawa, Concordia University, Polytechnique Montréal, McGill University, Fonex and Aeponyx, with primary applications in radio-over-fibre and coherent communications.

Advanced photodetectors are essential for detecting light or other electromagnetic radiation, playing a crucial role in the development of future satellite communications technologies and using the terahertz (THz) spectrum for wireless communication systems. In collaboration with École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, the NRC is creating ultra-high sensitivity imaging components for technologies such as free space optical communications, which are key for future satellite communications.

To address the challenges of spectrum scarcity and capacity limitations in future wireless systems, the NRC, the University of Ottawa and OZ Optics are developing high-sensitivity detection capabilities for THz radiation.

To enhance the compactness, cost-effectiveness and functionality of optical networks, many companies are now focusing on transmitting light on the surface of silicon chips. The HTSN Challenge program has supported collaborations with McGill University and the University of Malaga to develop innovative silicon photonic structures, including grating couplers and filters, for data and telecommunications purposes.

A project on AI-enabled fabrication of silicon photonic structures led to the creation of a start-up company named Prefab Photonics.

5G and 6G millimetre wave (mmWave) technology is crucial for providing broadband access to remote and rural areas that cannot be reached by traditional fibre networks. However, mmWave technology is limited by its range. The development of innovative printed and conformal antennas, supported by the HTSN Challenge program, could extend this range and enable non-line-of-sight communication in fixed wireless access networks and infrastructure.

For projects in this field, the HTSN Challenge program collaborates with Queen's University, Carleton University, mmSense and McGill University.