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Spreading high-speed Internet to rural areas

A new device using a Raman amplifier has successfully transmitted data over 37 miles of single-mode fiber, error-free, at a speed of 2.5 Gb/s. This technology could provide high-speed Internet to 99% of Australians living in Victoria, closing the digital divide.

SourceOptica·DateMar 16, 2009
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Engineers ride 'rogue' laser waves to build better light sources

Engineers at UCLA have successfully harnessed 'rogue' laser waves to produce brighter, more stable white light sources. The new technology reduces fluctuations by at least 90% and decreases energy needed by 25%. This breakthrough could pave the way for better clocks, faster cameras, and more powerful radar and communications technologies.

SourceOptica·DateMar 5, 2009

De-multiplexing to the max: 640 Gbits/second

Scientists from Denmark and Australia have established an error-free speed-reading record using a compact ultra-fast component, reaching 640 Gbps. The new technology allows for faster network speeds and opens the door to even higher data rates approaching terabits/second.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateFeb 2, 2009

Silicon optical fiber made practical

Researchers at Clemson University have successfully created a practical silicon optical fiber using standard mass-production methods. The development of this new fiber is expected to increase efficiency and decrease power consumption in computers and other systems that integrate photonic and electronic devices.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateOct 28, 2008
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

OSU technologies funded for development

Four faculty research projects at Oklahoma State University have been awarded funding from the Technology Business Assessment Group, totaling over $102,000. The projects focus on developing innovative products and technologies, including a 3D human tissue model, fiber optic sensor, data protection software, and recycled rubber composites.

SourceOklahoma State University·DateMay 14, 2008

Single-crystal semiconductor wire built into an optical fiber

A team from Penn State University and the University of Southampton created a single-crystal semiconductor inside an optical fiber, overcoming performance degradation between fibers and devices. The new device enables faster and more efficient electronic signals, opening up potential for next-level applications in various fields.

SourcePenn State·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 12, 2008
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Separate signals through optical fibers for ultrafast home network

Researchers separate TV, phone and internet signals using a technique called MGDM, which transmits each signal through a separate group of light rays. This technology has the potential to increase fibre network capacity and transmit information without disruption.

SourceNetherlands Organization for Scientific Research·DateJan 24, 2008

Discovery cuts cost of next generation optical fibers

Scientists have developed a new method to produce hollow-core optical fibres, which could lead to faster and more powerful computing and telecommunications technologies. The breakthrough reduces production time from around a week to just one day, making the fibre superior in virtually every respect to previous versions.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalOptics Express·DateJan 17, 2008

Purdue 'milestone' a step toward advanced sensors, communications

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a technique to precisely control the spectral properties of ultrafast light pulses, enabling the creation of advanced optical sensors for detecting hazardous materials and pollutants. The technique, called optical arbitrary waveform generation, also has potential applications in ultra-sen...

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Photonics·DateAug 1, 2007
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

On a wire or in a fiber, a wave is a wave

Surface plasmon polaritons move as waves and follow conventional optics' rules, limiting their size. Researchers developed a comprehensive theory to control SPPs, providing a bridge between nanoscale electronics and photonics.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJul 13, 2007

Long-distance record -- 'Quantum keys' sent 200 kilometers

Researchers from NIST, NTT Corp., and Stanford University have set a record for sending 'quantum keys' over a 200-kilometer fiber-optic link. The experiment demonstrated the feasibility of practical inter-city terrestrial quantum communications networks and long-range wireless systems using communication satellites.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature Photonics·DateJun 1, 2007

'Tunable' network features coordinated frequency combs

A super stable fiber-optic network that can be tuned across a range of frequencies has been demonstrated at NIST. The network simplifies accurate comparisons of atomic clocks operating at different frequencies and locations, with potential applications in remote sensing and secure communications.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNature Photonics·DateMay 10, 2007
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Mass weddings -- NIST's new efficient 2-photon source

Physicists at NIST have devised a system to generate paired photons with great efficiency over a wide range of energy, reducing noise from extraneous photons. The new microstructured optical fiber increases light intensity, making pair production more likely.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalOptics Express·DateApr 12, 2007

Atomic clock signals may be best shared by fiber-optics

Researchers at JILA propose using fibers to transfer ultra-stable time and frequency signals, offering improved accuracy over traditional GPS methods. This technology could enable synchronization of components in advanced X-ray sources and link geographically distributed radio telescopes to produce a giant telescope's power.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateMar 2, 2007
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

On airplanes, fiber optics poised to reach new heights

Researchers have invented an optical on-off switch that can replace electrical wiring on airplanes with fiber optics for controlling elevators, rudders, and other flight-critical elements. This technology also has potential applications on highways as a 'weigh-in-motion' sensor for measuring the weight of fast-moving commercial trucks.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Letters·DateSep 18, 2006

New process builds electronic function into optical fiber

A team from Penn State University and the University of Southampton has developed a new way to combine semiconductor devices with microstructured optical fibers. The resulting ability to generate and manipulate signals inside optical fibers could have applications in fields such as medicine, computing, and remote sensing devices.

SourcePenn State·JournalScience·DateMar 16, 2006
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

New technologies enhance quantum cryptography

The new superconducting transition-edge sensors (TES) enhance quantum key distribution by detecting single photons with higher efficiency and lower dark count rates than traditional avalanche photodiodes. This allows for increased distances for secure data transmission over optical fibers.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateFeb 2, 2006

UVic unveils world's most advanced seafloor observatory

The VENUS observatory will support two cable arrays in British Columbia waters, enabling scientists to study the oceans continuously and access data online. The project marks a new era of ocean exploration, driven by cutting-edge technology developed in BC.

SourceUniversity of Victoria·DateNov 17, 2005

Shadow technique improves measurement of micro holes

A new measurement method developed by NIST researchers uses the shadow cast by a small glass probe to infer the dimensions of tiny, microscale holes. The technique provides an improved quality control method for precision-engineered products, such as fuel nozzles and biomedical stents.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateJun 2, 2005
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

January 2005 Ophthalmology Journal

The January 2005 issue of the American Academy of Ophthalmology's Journal features various studies on glaucoma, including the restoration of retinal ganglion cell function in early glaucoma after intraocular pressure reduction. Other topics include LASIK surgery and its effects on myopia, as well as a study on familial aggregation of h...

SourceAmerican Academy of Ophthalmology·JournalOphthalmology·DateJan 7, 2005

New fiber optic sensors increase range

Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed new fiber optic sensors using UV-induced intrinsic Fabry-Perot interferometers, increasing the range and enabling real-time monitoring of large areas. The technology has the potential to create a nationwide network of sensors for infrastructure monitoring with improved multiplexing capability.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateOct 21, 2004

Super slow light may help speed optical communications

Physicists at NIST propose new way to slow light down to almost one-millionth its usual speed using a stable pulsed laser in cryogenic gas. This method could help simplify and reduce the cost of high-speed optical communications, enabling faster signal routing and data synchronization.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateOct 14, 2004
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

MIT's novel fabrics see the light

The team created two prototype fibers with new technology, combining optical and electronic components, enabling smart fabrics and potential computer interface innovations. Assembling the fibers into woven structures allows for precise identification of light sources on surfaces.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateOct 14, 2004

Radio astronomy gets connected

The e-MERLIN network will use optical fibers to increase data capacity and sensitivity, enabling UK astronomers to make important contributions to advancing our understanding of the Universe. The new system will allow for detailed radio images of stars and galaxies with unprecedented resolution.

SourceScience and Technology Facilities Council·DateMay 25, 2004
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Tools to guide and switch light for photonic microchips

The Nanophotonics Group at Cornell University has developed tools to guide and switch light in low-index materials, including air or a vacuum. This technology enables the use of a wide variety of low-index materials, including polymers, and could speed up the day when home use of fiber-optic lines becomes practical.

SourceCornell University·DateFeb 15, 2004

How shock waves change glass

Simulations show that compression waves change the atomic arrangement of glass, resulting in a denser and less brittle material. The study, published in Physical Review Letters, may have implications for optimizing glass properties.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 12, 2003
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Doped liquid crystals allow real time holography

Researchers have developed doped liquid crystals that allow for real-time holography with significantly improved optical properties. These materials can be used in various applications, including focusing optical telescopes and creating real-time holographic movies, due to their high sensitivity to light.

SourcePenn State·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 21, 2003

Single photon detector conquers the dark side

The NIST-developed device detects single photons with negligible dark counts using a tungsten film coupled to fiber optic communication line. It achieves a detection rate of 20,000 photons per second with an efficiency of 20%, aiming for over 80% improvement.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateAug 12, 2003

NIST technology helps ensure reliability of military communications

The NIST-designed optical detector and ILX Lightwave Corp.-designed optical multimeter enable reliable optical fiber power measurements. Independent tests confirm the system's accuracy, with excellent agreement between NIST and its German and British counterparts.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalMetrologia·DateJul 9, 2003

U of T research holds promise for optical chip

Researchers at University of Toronto have developed a material that converts electrical current into photons, holding promise for directly linking computers with networks transmitting information in light. The study demonstrates the conversion of electrical current into light using a promising class of nanocrystals, paving the way for ...

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 28, 2003
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Engineers take new look at strength of industrial glass

Researchers have improved a method for measuring the strength of E-glass and other glass fibers, revealing it may be more than one and a half times stronger than previously recorded measurements. This discovery could help expand applications for glass fibers in industries such as automotive manufacturing.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Non-Crystalline Solids·DateFeb 25, 2003

Hiding in the noise and chaos

Scientists at ONR have created a novel technique to hide information within the naturally occurring fluctuations of light polarization in optical fibers. The signal is modulated onto these variations, making it nearly impossible for unauthorized parties to intercept and decode the message.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateAug 12, 2002

New focus award finalists announced

The New Focus Student Awards recognize groundbreaking research by six finalists, including Seth Aubin's work on francium trapping, E. Staffan Björlin's vertical-cavity semiconductor optical amplifiers, and Michael J. Escuti's switchable mesoscale lattices in liquid crystal polymer dispersions.

SourceOptica·DateApr 25, 2002
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Under construction: Information super highway getting wider

Researchers from Agere Systems transmitted 3.2 terabits of information per second over a 1000km long fiber optic line using DWDM technology. A separate team from Mitsubishi Japan has made progress on transoceanic class transmissions, aiming to establish longer connections between countries.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·DateMar 13, 2002

Plastic LEDs break telecommunications barrier

Researchers at Technion-Israel Institute of Technology have created plastic LEDs that can efficiently produce near-infrared radiation, a crucial component for high-speed fiber optic communications. The new technology has the potential to cut costs and increase efficiency, paving the way for global networks in homes.

SourceAmerican Society for Technion - Israel Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateFeb 21, 2002

Future looks bright for StarLight

The StarLight network provides high-speed connectivity for researchers worldwide, enabling real-time collaboration on complex projects. With speeds of up to 10 gigabits per second, StarLight supports cutting-edge applications such as virtual reality presentations and data mining.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateDec 5, 2001

Fiber-optic sensors detect damaged rails and faulty wheels

Researchers developed fiber-optic sensors to detect flaws in rails and wheels, improving train safety by pinpointing location, speed, and damage. The palm-sized sensors offer a fast and cost-effective method to detect deformities in rail-car wheels, reducing the risk of derailment.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·DateFeb 1, 2001

New optical switch removes barrier to light-speed communication

Researchers developed an ultra-fast optical switch that can reformat information at speeds unmatched by current devices. The switch uses off-the-shelf components and operates in a billionth of a second, allowing for fast wavelength conversion and customization of pulse lengths.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·DateOct 24, 2000
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Fiber optic laser could track changes in Earth's ozone layer

A fiber-optic laser system, designed by Johns Hopkins University engineers, will be launched into space to gather data on air pollution and atmospheric changes. The device uses ultraviolet light to strike gas molecules, providing critical information about the health of the atmosphere.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·DateAug 24, 2000

A new device for detecting illicit plutonium

A new radiation detector based on optical fibers has been developed to detect illicit plutonium. The device is light, flexible, and can be used in various applications, including airport security and medical treatments for brain tumors.

SourceNew Scientist·JournalThe New Scientist·DateSep 1, 1999

Smart masts for intelligent yachts

Engineers at Smart Fibres Ltd developed a smart mast that uses 'Bragg grating' strain sensor technology to monitor stresses and strains in composite materials. The technology has the potential for use in various industries, including aerospace and civil engineering.

SourceInstitute of Materials·DateJul 1, 1999
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Heavy Metal Hit Parade Could Point Scientists To Source Of Gamma-Ray Bursts

Researchers propose instrument to measure high-energy gamma rays from blazars, pulsars, and bursts, offering improved tracking capabilities and higher energy detection limits. The scintillating fiber detector system will act as both a tracker and calorimeter, providing a wide-angle view of the sky with unprecedented precision.

SourceNASA/Marshall Space Flight Center--Space Sciences Laboratory·DateSep 2, 1998

Scientists Show How Defects Can Improve Technology In Science Magazine's Special Issue On Materials Science

Scientists discover that adding defects to materials can enhance their performance in semiconductor devices, leading to breakthroughs in information technology, high-speed communications, and the development of new LED technologies. Researchers are also exploring ways to exploit defects in optical fibers to increase bandwidth capacities.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateAug 14, 1998

Smart Concrete May Mean Less Road Closures

Researchers at U of T's Institute for Aerospace Studies have developed a smart structure on the Leslie Street bridge, lining columns with fibre-optic sensors and wrapping them with lightweight synthetic materials. The sensors precisely measure corrosion and hold the structure together, reducing road maintenance and closures.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·DateApr 29, 1998

Columbia-SUNY Team Slices Magnetic Crystal; Applications Seen For Miniaturized Optical Devices

Researchers at Columbia University have developed a technology that combines electronics and optics on a single chip, enabling the creation of miniaturized optical devices such as tiny lasers and implantable medical sensors. This breakthrough could simplify fiber optic communications and lead to more efficient and cost-effective systems.

SourceColumbia University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateNov 12, 1997
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

ZBLAN Research Takes Step Forward

Researchers have made significant breakthroughs with ZBLAN material, a potential game-changer for optical fiber communications. Made in space, ZBLAN exhibits properties that far exceed current state-of-the-art materials, offering vast potential for applications in fields like medical surgery and temperature monitoring.

SourceNASA/Marshall Space Flight Center News Center·DateJun 4, 1997

Liquid Crystal Fibers Provide Optical Protection

A Penn State engineer has developed liquid crystal fibers that can automatically prevent overload and protect optical sensors from laser damage. The fibers absorb all colors of light and react non-linearly to intensity, allowing low levels of laser light to pass through.

SourcePenn State·DateApr 1, 1997