Does the Acronym PLCN seem familiar? If any of you are wondering what that stands for, here goes. PLCN stands for Pacific Light Cable Network. It is a new subsea cable spanning the Pacific. This is being constructed under the combined partnership of Facebook, Google and Pacific Light Data Communication.
PLCN is one of the longest cable networks connecting Los Angeles and Hong Kong directly. It is also going to be one of the highest-capacity trans-Pacific systems. The initially estimated design capacity is 120 Tbsp. It will have 12,800 km of fiber and transmit 120 terabits of data per second between Los Angeles and Hong Kong.
PLCN provides great flexibility to the users. For previous versions of subsea cables, the system vendor would provide the initial optical equipment. This was dependent on the technology that was available during the period the cable was contracted. However, PLCN gives the parties involved complete independence in selecting its optical equipment. Also, equipment refreshes and modifications can be brought about as and when optical technology advances even during the construction of the system. This project is being built by TE SubCom. The costs are expected to go down as technology advances. Also, the bandwidth rates will increase at a rapid pace.
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