Sumitomo Electric & 3M Partner on Expanded Beam Optical Interconnects for Data Centers
Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd. (Sumitomo Electric) and 3M have announced a strategic assembler agreement that enables Sumitomo Electric to offer a broad range of optical fiber connectivity products featuring 3M™ Expanded Beam Optical (EBO) Interconnect technology. This high-performance solution is designed to address the increasing scalability demands of next-generation data centers and advanced network infrastructures, which require high-speed, reliable, and easily deployable connectivity solutions.
3M’s Expanded Beam Optical (EBO) Technology: A Game-Changer for Data Centers
3M’s EBO technology, available in both single-mode and multi-mode configurations, is a state-of-the-art, high-performance solution that has been optimized for hyperscale data centers and edge computing environments. Unlike conventional fiber optic connections that rely on physical contact, EBO technology utilizes a non-physical contact optical coupling mechanism. This innovation significantly reduces wear and minimizes sensitivity to contamination, ensuring greater durability, lower maintenance, and enhanced reliability. By eliminating the issues associated with physical contact connectors, EBO technology improves long-term performance while reducing the frequency of cleaning and replacements required in high-density optical networks.
The non-contact nature of 3M’s EBO technology provides several advantages:
- Minimized Contamination Sensitivity: Since there is no direct contact between fiber ends, the risk of contamination, which can lead to signal degradation, is significantly reduced.
- Enhanced Durability: Physical wear and tear associated with conventional connectors is eliminated, leading to longer-lasting performance and fewer failures.
- Simplified Installation and Maintenance: EBO technology significantly reduces the time and effort needed for installation and maintenance, helping data centers scale operations efficiently.
- Scalability for Next-Generation Networks: With its high scalability, EBO technology is perfectly suited to meet the increasing demands of hyperscale data centers and distributed computing environments.
Given the rapid expansion of data networks and the increasing demand for high-speed connectivity, the deployment of EBO technology is expected to play a crucial role in the evolution of network infrastructure.
Sumitomo Electric’s Commitment to Innovation in Fiber Connectivity
Recognizing the transformative potential of EBO technology, Sumitomo Electric has leveraged its expertise to develop its own termination equipment for 3M™ Expanded Beam Optical Ferrules. This development builds upon Sumitomo Electric’s unique technologies, including its world-leading fusion splicer technologies, to ensure high precision and reliability in fiber optic connectivity. With a strong global presence and an extensive distribution network, Sumitomo Electric is well-positioned to introduce 12- and 16-fiber EBO cable assemblies featuring 3M’s Expanded Beam Optical Ferrule. The company is also actively working on developing a complete suite of EBO solutions tailored to meet diverse customer requirements.
Beyond cable assemblies, Sumitomo Electric is expanding its EBO product line to include a variety of components that enhance optical network infrastructure. These offerings will include:
- Factory-Connectorized Assemblies: High-quality, pre-assembled optical cables that simplify installation and improve network reliability.
- Patch Panels & Interconnect Panels: Modular connectivity solutions that facilitate efficient cable management and easy scalability.
- Cassettes: Compact, plug-and-play fiber management solutions designed for high-density environments.
- Pre-Connectorized High-Fiber-Count Cables: Optimized for large-scale deployments where rapid and reliable fiber connections are essential.
With these developments, Sumitomo Electric aims to provide comprehensive solutions that cater to the evolving needs of the telecommunications and data center industries.
Industry Leaders on the Partnership
Commenting on this strategic agreement, Kazumasa Ozawa, Executive Officer at Sumitomo Electric, stated:
“We partner with industry leaders like 3M to develop award-winning, next-generation-thinking solutions, ensuring that Sumitomo Electric’s connectivity portfolio is uniquely positioned to help operators cost-effectively stay on top of the increasing demands on their data centers. By leveraging 3M’s cutting-edge Expanded Beam Optical technology, we can deliver scalable and reliable connectivity solutions that align with the rapidly evolving requirements of modern network infrastructure.”
From 3M’s perspective, this collaboration underscores the company’s commitment to advancing the future of data infrastructure. Kevin Twomey, Global Portfolio Director for 3M’s Electronics Materials Solutions Division, highlighted the significance of the partnership:
“This agreement with Sumitomo Electric Industries continues to emphasize 3M’s commitment to the future of data infrastructure. 3M’s Expanded Beam Optical Ferrule is optimized for hyperscale data centers and edge computing environments, and we are thrilled to partner with Sumitomo Electric to provide reliable, scalable solutions. By working together, we can help operators and enterprises deploy optical networking solutions that enhance performance and efficiency.”
Market Demand and the Future of Optical Connectivity
The growing reliance on cloud computing, artificial intelligence, 5G, and high-performance computing has placed unprecedented demands on data centers and network operators. As a result, the need for high-density, high-speed optical connectivity solutions has never been more critical. EBO technology, with its non-contact coupling design, is expected to become a key enabler for the next wave of data infrastructure advancements.
Data centers, particularly hyperscale facilities, require solutions that minimize downtime, reduce operational costs, and improve long-term reliability. The adoption of EBO technology can help operators achieve these objectives while preparing for future network expansion and higher bandwidth demands. Sumitomo Electric and 3M’s collaboration is well-aligned with these industry trends, offering customers innovative solutions that deliver exceptional performance and ease of deployment.
Sumitomo Electric to Showcase New EBO Assemblies at OFC 2025
Sumitomo Electric will introduce its new EBO cable assemblies and connectivity solutions at the OFC 2025 conference, taking place from April 1-3, in San Francisco, California. The event, which is one of the world’s premier conferences for optical networking and communications, will serve as a platform for Sumitomo Electric to demonstrate the capabilities and advantages of its latest offerings.
Attendees visiting Sumitomo Electric’s booth (Booth 3342) will have the opportunity to explore the company’s EBO product line, interact with industry experts, and gain insights into the future of fiber optic connectivity. In addition to live demonstrations, Sumitomo Electric will provide technical discussions on the integration of EBO technology in modern network architectures and its role in shaping next-generation data infrastructure.
For the latest updates and announcements, industry professionals are encouraged to connect with Sumitomo Electric online and follow the company on social media platforms such as X (formerly Twitter). More details on OFC 2025 can be found on the official event website: OFC 2025 Official Web Site.
The assembler agreement between Sumitomo Electric and 3M marks a significant milestone in the evolution of fiber optic connectivity solutions. By leveraging 3M’s Expanded Beam Optical technology, Sumitomo Electric is poised to offer cutting-edge optical connectivity solutions that meet the growing demands of hyperscale data centers and advanced network architectures. With enhanced durability, simplified installation, and scalable designs, these solutions will play a crucial role in shaping the future of high-speed optical networks.
As the industry moves towards greater automation, higher bandwidth, and more robust network infrastructure, the partnership between Sumitomo Electric and 3M is set to drive innovation and deliver reliable, high-performance connectivity solutions that redefine the standards for data transmission and network efficiency.
