The Fraunhofer Heinrich-Hertz-Institut (HHI) is a world leader in the development for mobile and optical communication networks and systems as well as processing and coding of video signals. Together with international partners from research and industry, Fraunhofer HHI works in the whole spectrum of digital infrastructure – from fundamental research to the development of prototypes and solutions.

At ECOC 2026 Fraunhofer HHI presents the latest developments in Photonic Components, Networks and Systems from September 20-24 in Málaga, Spain.

Fraunhofer HHI offers high-speed test and measurement equipment for the O-band, exceeding conventional C/L-band systems.

This includes a Dual Polarization IQ Optical Transmitter for generating high-speed data signals from the O- to the L-band and a Dual Polarization Coherent Receiver Frontend for precise coherent detection in the O-band with up to 100 GHz of Bandwidth. This is complemented by an automatic Optical Loop Control for emulating long transmission distances in the O-band. Solutions are also available for other wavelength ranges from O- to U-band. Together with our partner ID Photonics, we offer high-performance optical test and measurement devices such as DP IQ reference transmitters up to 80 GHz and coherent reference receivers with bandwidths up to 60 GHz.

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This advanced software empowers researchers and developers to analyze coherent signals using complex modulation formats through a configurable DSP pipeline and an intuitive graphical and numerical interface. From oscilloscope data capture to in‑depth evaluation, everything is integrated into one seamless GUI. The solution is powered by the DSP engine of HHI’s renowned DSPlib framework.

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Optical Wireless Communication for 6G Backhaul

Building on our established LED-based point-to-point links we present the next generation of optical wireless technology: LiFi 2.0.
Based on high-power VCSEL-array transmitters and low-noise APD-array receivers, we demonstrate a system capable of 5 Gbps. Combining imaging optics and a DSP solution based on IEEE 802.13.15 we reach field of views of 60° without diminishing the data-rate. Simple alignment during installation and rate-adaptivity during operation enable optical front- and backhauling with a reliability of 99.99% for future mobile communication systems and offers mobile operators new flexibility in developing their networks – as a capacity upgrade for existing wireless links, to improve resilience against adverse weather conditions or as a standalone solution for rapid or economical network development.

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Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) enables future-proof long-term protection of sensitive data and communication applications – even against the imminent security threats of quantum computers. Fraunhofer HHI developed a high-speed QKD system that seamlessly integrates in telecom network infrastructures.

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Fraunhofer HHI introduces the Modular Multi Source power supply, designed to streamline lab setups by consolidating multiple power sources into a single, compact unit. With up to 48 channels per device across 8 freely combinable modules, it offers customizable current and voltage outputs, laser drivers, and TEC controllers. This modular system enhances precision and reduces clutter, making it ideal for various research fields, including electronics, photonics, and semiconductor development. Ethernet connectivity and a small form factor ensure versatile, efficient lab operations.

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NOBS is a multi-purpose monitoring and analytics platform that enables collecting telemetry data in a secure way and exposing it to potential consumers through data-sovereign APIs. At ECOC, we demonstrate three novel features and use cases realized by NOBS: 1) Cross-Organizational Digital Twin Development and Validation using the Optical Testbed Data Space, 2) Conversational AI Assistant for Unified Network Operations and Observability, and 3) Governed Control of Coherent-Pluggable Modules in Disaggregated IPoWDM Networks.

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The VPItoolkit^TM DSP Library is a comprehensive collection of lab-proven digital signal processing algorithms designed for the modeling and simulation of high-performance optical transmission systems. The new release features novel equalizers for space-division multiplexing systems.

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IGNITE is an open innovation cluster hosted by Fraunhofer HHI, bringing together vendors, operators, system integrators, and researchers to accelerate the development of intelligent, energy-efficient photonic networks.

Members gain access to shared test infrastructure, real-world field environments, and a collaborative ecosystem - co-financed through public funding and industry partnerships.

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SUSTAINET is an international research project as part of the CELTIC NEXT initiative. The aim of the project is to develop innovative technologies and solutions that increase the resilience, energy efficiency and sustainability of networks. It thus makes a significant contribution to Europe's digital transformation and technological sovereignty.

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High-Speed Detection for Next-Generation Optical Communication

Fraunhofer HHI provides high-speed photodetector modules with up to 145 GHz bandwidth for next-generation datacom, telecom and microwave photonics applications. The InP-based photodetector chips are fabricated and packaged at Fraunhofer HHI using mature wafer-level processes, including Telcordia and space-qualified technologies, enabling reliable detection of optical signals up to 200 GBaud.

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TFLN PICs for Communication and Sensing

Fraunhofer HHI offers high-speed phase modulation for 100+ GHz Mach-Zehnder modulators on TFLN PICs. The broad optical spectrum from 450 - 4500 nm allows for a wide range of applications in sensing, communication and quantum. First building blocks for customized wafer fabrication are available and regular TFLN MPW runs are coming soon.

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High speed EML for datacom

Fraunhofer HHI offers high-speed differential EMLs for datacom and telecom applications. In comparison to conventional single-ended EMLs, the differential EMLs optimize the use of differential drivers to achieve greater modulation swing, lower power consumption due to reduced voltage requirements, and improved signal integrity with minimal crosstalk. The differential EML chips are based on mature InP technology and are fabricated in the wafer process line of Fraunhofer HHI, offering Telcordia and space-qualified processes.

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Ultra-stable and ultra-fast laser sources for next-generation photonic systems

Fraunhofer HHI develops high-performance laser sources with ultra-narrow linewidth for stable, low-noise continuous-wave emission. Furthermore mode-locked lasers enable ultrashort pulse generation with tailored repetition rates. Based on hybrid photonic integration, these lasers provide excellent coherence and flexibility, ideal for coherent communications, optical sensing, metrology, and frequency comb generation.

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Application-specific PICs from NIR down to VIS

Fraunhofer HHI offers customized SiN PICs covering wavelength ranges from the near‑infrared down to the visible. The platform provides a broad set of photonic building blocks, including ring resonators, MMIs, tunable gratings, and phase shifters, along with optimized interfaces supporting the hybrid integration of lasers, gain chips, and detectors.

Surface functionalization and wafer‑level micro‑fluidics further extend the SiN wafer technology to application‑specific solutions in life sciences, analytics, and sensing.

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