Networked laboratories may have driven optical sales higher

Laboratories' investments into high-speed data networks may have been among the driving forces behind increased shipments of fibre optics in the second quarter of 2010.

Figures from Infonetics show the global increase in sales of optical networking hardware during the three-month period.

In Europe, the Middle East and Africa, a mixed outlook is forecasted for the remainder of the year; however, the sector held its ground in the second quarter.

Elsewhere, the figures show an increase, which could be an indicator of laboratories and other institutions overhauling their networks to make use of high-speed fibre optics.

"Optical network equipment spending was up in North America, Asia Pacific and Central and Latin America in the second quarter," says directing analyst for optical Andrew Schmitt.

Mr Schmitt has 18 years of experience in the telecommunications industry, with a 14-year history of specialising in optical connections and focuses on expanding Infonetics' coverage into new areas of optics-based technology.