A short introduction of the POF usability lab at Harz University

Abstract

Polymer optical fibers (POF) can be used for a large number of applications, most notably for data transmission. Although POF are used for a lot of medical as well as scientific applications, the technology is - as of yet-almost unknown to the contemporary consumer market. To change this incongruity, Harz University established the POF usability lab. Thanks to the help of several sponsors, an exemplary, POF-based home network was installed to demonstrate specific advantages of POF communication technology. The lab can also be utilized for data throughput measurements, component tests and tests concerning the interoperability of POF-based applications from different manufacturers. In addition, a POF-centered training course was developed and certified by the German Broadband Communication Institute dibkom. The curriculum is designed to fit the needs of architects, technicians, electricians, students and pupils undergoing vocational training. © 2010 IEEE.