Pilot Fiber has introduced high-capacity wavelength services in New York City, enhancing its connectivity to support 400-gigabit connections. Utilizing solutions from Scandinavian optical networking provider Smartoptics, this upgrade aims to bolster the fiber backbone essential for servicing industries in NYC, particularly the enterprise and financial sectors.
The newly implemented wavelength services utilize an 800G-ready Smartoptics ROADM architecture. This rollout offers managed, end-to-end services across Manhattan and New Jersey. Joe Fasone, CEO of Pilot Fiber, highlighted the smooth installation process, which was completed and online in about two weeks. This rapid completion was integral for both time-to-market and operational confidence.
Pilot Fiber’s expansive network spans over 300 miles and connects more than 1,000 commercial premises. It is particularly adept at managing latency-sensitive applications like trading, quantum computing, and AI inference. This upgrade sees the firm’s backbone shift towards a 400G-capable framework employing Smartoptics DCP-R ROADMs and DCP-2 transponder chassis.
The compelling nature of Smartoptics equipment is attributed to its flexibility and scalability, which were primary motivations for its selection. As Fasone noted, these characteristics are crucial given the confined spaces in urban network installations.
For Smartoptics, this collaboration marks a significant step in its broader strategy to penetrate the U.S. market. Smartoptics CEO Magnus Grenfeldt remarked on the importance of developing a more automated, resilient service model. The platform aims to enhance enterprise connectivity in the demanding New York market, assisted by the SoSmart management suite that supports service planning and activation.
Despite the insights into technical advancements and vendor perspectives, details such as pricing, contract specifics, or the comprehensive list of connected data centers remain undisclosed. This strategic rollout by Pilot Fiber illustrates a forward-thinking approach in addressing the evolving demands of metropolitan connectivity.


