Santa Fe Public Schools (SFPS) is deploying a new type of local area network (LAN) that uses fiber optics. Optical LAN provides gigabit speeds to students, teachers and classrooms to augment digital learning.
In Phase I, during the 2013-2014 school year, SFPS deployed 1:1 devices for approximately 227 students at Ramirez Thomas Elementary School. Optical LAN enabled SFPS to deploy eight drops per classroom, while saving enough money to cover an average teacher’s salary.
Following the success of Phase I, SFPS plans to deploy Optical LAN in 6 more schools by the beginning of the 2014-2015 school year.
Optical LAN simplifies electronics, cabling and installation, reduces maintenance needs, and centralizes LAN management. It also eliminates the need for wiring closets and HVAC systems inside the school.
Ultimately, Optical LAN provides faster connections and saves the school district money. Since Optical LAN reaches further – 20 to 30 kilometers from its central hub, compared with only 100 meters for copper – additional schools can be served from one central hub.
IT Connect, an IT system integrator, installed Tellabs Optical LAN to deliver gigabit speeds to students and teachers at Ramirez Thomas Elementary School.
"Optical LAN requires fewer electronics and less cabling, compared with legacy copper-based LANs," said Elias Bernardino, Executive Director of Information Technology for SFPS. "It eliminates the need for telecommunication closets, enabling the school district to increase space for classroom. It reduces the electronics, power consumption, power backup, ventilation and air conditioning required. Optical LAN is easier to install and easier to maintain, too.”
