Nokia has claimed it is the first telecommunications vendor to manufacture fibre broadband optical modules in the US to be deployed for the Broadband, Equity, Access, and Deployment (Bead) program.

Nokia in partnership with optical product manufacturer Fabrinet will produce optical modules in Santa Clara, California, which will commence in 2024.

Nokia previously announced it produced fibre-optic broadband network electronic products in Kenosha, Wisconsin.

Nokia explains that optical modules are an important component of fibre broadband networks, converting electrical signals into light and connects homes to broadband.

States and infrastructure players seeking to participate in Bead and the US$42.45 billion of available funding allocated for broadband rollouts to unserved and underserved communities are required to use equipment manufactured in the US.

More than 70% of fibre broadband lines in North America are powered by Nokia, the telco vendor claimed.

Using multi-rate optical modules and products allows operators to upgrade speeds from 1 Gig to Multi-Gig. Its 25G solutions and 100G technology research ensure operators are building fibre networks to meet user requirements.

Nokia president fixed networks Sandy Motley said the manufacturing of optical modules will help bridge the digital divide.



Fabrinet chief operating officer and president Harpal Gill said the partnership with Nokia will help provide broadband access to more people, homes, and communities.