February 24, 2026
[Raleigh, NC, February 12, 2026] - Sumitomo Electric Lightwave (SEL), a Sumitomo Electric Industries Group company, announced today that it was recognized twice in the 2026 Lightwave Innovation Reviews, with both its Quantum-Ultra Fusion Splicer and 32 Fiber MMC Connector receiving Elite Scores.
Lightwave’s judging panel evaluated submissions for originality, innovation, positive impact on the customer, how well they address a new or existing requirement, and cost-effectiveness, then rated them on a scale of one to five, with fives reserved for entries bringing something unique to optical and broadband communications.
Judges awarded the new AI-enabled Quantum-Ultra Ribbon 16-fiber splicer a score of 4.5 for advancing deployments of next-generation hyperscale networks. The 32 Fiber MMC Connector Fiber MMC Connector technology received a score of 4.0 for achieving the industry’s first 32-fiber MMC connectivity.
“The recognition from Lightwave judges validates that the ways we help our customers solve for network complexity, performance, cost, and reliability are also making a positive impact industry-wide,” stated Yoshi Suetsugu, Chairman and CEO of Sumitomo Electric Lightwave.
The Quantum-Ultra Ribbon splicer is precision-engineered to improve labor efficiencies with state-of-the-art technology, including NanoTune™, E-ACAS, dual independent ovens, tool-free replaceable v-grooves, and special coatings. Highly versatile, it easily adapts to 250μm and 200μmecosystems and is ready to support any network, no matter the fiber count or pitch requirements.
By enabling 32-fiber MMC technology, the density of 24-fiber MMC connectors is increased by 33 percent in the same footprint. As part of US Conec’s MMC technology ecosystem and in close collaboration with hyperscale partners, Sumitomo Electric Lightwave developed 32-fiber MMC technology to support seamless upgrades from MPO-based infrastructure to 1.6T Ethernet ultra-high-speed data transfer for AI data centers.
“On behalf of the Lightwave Innovation Reviews, I would like to congratulate Sumitomo Electric Lightwave on achieving a well-deserved Elite honoree status,” said Lightwave Editor-in-Chief Sean Buckley, “This competitive program enables Lightwave to showcase and applaud the most innovative products, projects, technologies, and programs that significantly impact the industry.”
Sumitomo Electric Lightwave will showcase both products at OFC 2026, March 17-19, in Los Angeles, California. Visit booth 1658 to learn more. For updates, connect with us online and on X.
OFC 2026 Official Web site: https://www.ofcconference.org/en-us/home/
Sumitomo Electric Lightwave (SEL) is a subsidiary of Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd. (SEI), a global corporate group founded in 1897, comprised of 421subsidiaries and affiliates, and more than 280,000 employees in 40 countries worldwide. Together, they are a leading-edge force advancing information and communications technology. They continue to shape optical fiber networks through decades of pioneering industry-changing and customer-focused innovations.
Lightwave bring over 36 years of trusted technical insights to today's optical communications professionals. Through their integrated media portfolio, Lightwave delivers content focused on fiber optics and optoelectronics, the technologies that enable the growth, integration and improved performance of voice, data and video communications networks and services. Their experienced editorial team provides trusted technology, application and market insights to corporate executives, department heads, project managers, network engineers and technical managers at equipment suppliers, service providers and major end-user organizations. Their unique ability to inform audience’s business-critical decisions is based in their 35+ year relationship with the entire optical community—technology vendors, communications carriers and major enterprises—and their recognition of the interplay among its members.