DWDM for Public Health Institutions
In recent years, we've increasingly collaborated with our partners on projects for public institutions. With digital transformation touching nearly every operational process, the volume of data transmitted by individual branches and offices has been growing exponentially. In the project described below, we worked alongside our partner, Trecom Group, a leading system integrator in Poland, to deliver a solution for a national public health institution handling significant amounts of sensitive data.
Challenge: One Fiber, Multiple Demands
The client had two optical routes, each consisting of a single fiber strand (1F), connecting separate data center locations. Network capacity could no longer keep pace with rapidly increasing data traffic, causing performance issues. The lack of additional fiber strands prevented the introduction of new data streams, and every new deployment required finding alternative ways to expand existing resources.
Exploring Solutions
There are several ways to increase network capacity. The first option involves leasing additional fiber strands from a provider, quickly boosting available resources but significantly increasing operating costs. The second option is to lay new fiber along the route, which entails substantial investment and prolonged implementation time.
A third alternative is making better use of existing fiber infrastructure. In cooperation with Trecom Group, a leading integrator in Poland, we recommended and implemented DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing) technology, allowing multiple transmissions over a single fiber by utilizing different wavelengths of light.
DWDM System by Salumanus
With DWDM technology, the client was able to significantly increase network capacity without physically expanding their infrastructure. Installation took only one day and had no impact on existing services. The client received a modular GBC Photonics platform, ensuring flexibility for future expansions. This "pay as you grow" approach makes expansion simple and cost-effective.
The system allowed the launch of up to eight separate transmissions. The client redundantly deployed two Ethernet 25G services for the LAN network and two SAN services. Additionally, spare capacity was preserved for four extra transmissions, enabling an eightfold increase in bandwidth compared to the client's initial capabilities. Future phases planned to migrate additional transmissions onto the DWDM system, further reducing link maintenance costs.
Benefits of DWDM Implementation
Implementing the DWDM system allowed the institution to dramatically enhance network bandwidth, eliminating previous constraints and performance issues. Communication between critical data centers was secured in terms of both data volume and reliability. The implementation provided full redundancy at both hardware and line levels, significantly enhancing system security and reliability. The client particularly appreciated the flexibility of the new technology, which allows incremental upgrades according to their evolving needs.
Trecom Feedback
The Salumanus sales and technical teams demonstrated extensive knowledge and experience, paying close attention to details crucial for the final solution. The implementation process was precisely planned and executed according to schedule. During installation, engineers remained available, responded to questions, and clearly explained system administration details. Upon completion, the client received comprehensive documentation and ongoing technical support. The successful completion of the project promises further positive collaboration between Salumanus and Trecom.
List of equipment used in the implementation:
GBC Photonics passive DWDM
GBC Photonics active platform
1U 19" chassis with 3 slots for service boards, SNMP managed, AC, DC, or AC+DC power supply
Single slot transponder card with 8x SFP28 ports, 4 independent channels, each up to 28G