Telecommunications company Globe, through its subsidiary Fiber Infrastructure and Network Services Inc. (FINSI) and in partnership with Google X’s TAARA, has completed a field trial of Free Space Optics (FSO) technology across Laguna Lake.
The trial achieved 10Gbps wireless optical connectivity over an 11-kilometer aerial distance, with most of the link spanning open water. FSO uses laser-based communications to transmit data without the need for fiber or licensed spectrum.
The testing involved Google’s TAARA FSO link to bridge the long-distance aerial gap. It included standard assessments such as the Enhanced RFC2544 test suite, which measures throughput, latency, jitter, and frame loss, as well as a 24-hour Bit Error Rate Test. Globe said the system met its technical requirements.
“This milestone represents a significant leap forward in our quest to deliver future-ready and cost-effective transport solutions that are rapidly deployable,” said Gerhard Tan, senior director and head of Technology Strategy and Innovations at Globe.
Google’s TAARA FSO technology uses beams of light to deliver multi-gigabit data transmission and is designed for areas where laying fiber is difficult or expensive. Globe said the Laguna Lake trial showed the system’s ability to work in challenging conditions where traditional infrastructure may not be practical.
“This pilot opens doors to a reliable and scalable wireless backhaul solution that can be rapidly deployed and help close connectivity gaps, especially in island and remote areas,” Tan said.
“Our team has been hands-on in enabling the successful deployment and validation of the TAARA system in the field,” said Xerxes Jonash Sta. Ana, general manager of FINSI.