BridgeComm, Inc., a provider of optical wireless communications (OWC) solutions and services, has announced the next stage in its relationship with Boeing HorizonX. The two companies are collaboratively pioneering the development of applications of One-to-Many (OTM) technology, a breakthrough in OWC that provides bi-directional, ultra-high-speed mesh connectivity for terrestrial, airborne and space systems.
Boeing HorizonX Ventures led BridgeSat’s Series B funding round, with participation by Allied Minds in September 2018.
OTM builds on the basic connectivity that traditional point-to-point optical terminals provide and enables a much broader set of telecommunication applications. This technology enables optical wireless communications systems to create bi-directional mesh connectivity similar to, and complementary with, radio frequency systems.
OTM is capable of supporting terrestrial, airborne and space systems that require 10-100+ Gbps throughput, as well as the high reliability and redundancy inherent in mesh architecture. OTM maintains the inherent security features in OWC, while supporting the mesh architecture. OTM also provides a much-needed new option for high-speed connectivity in environments where RF spectrum is limited or congested.
“The One-to-Many technology that Boeing and BridgeComm are developing is a game changer for businesses and other organisations that need the ultra-fast, ultra-reliable connectivity that will complement traditional radio frequency systems,” said Dr. Bruce Chesley, Senior Director of Strategy for Boeing’s Space and Launch business. “OTM will revolutionise the way these organisations communicate, and in the process will create a communications systems designed for long term growth.”
