OneChip Photonics — a young Ottawa firm — is poised to commercialize a breakthrough technology, thanks in large part to the services provided by the NRC Canadian Photonics Fabrication Centre. OneChip Photonics is banking on the fact that the whole world wants more bandwidth. More bandwidth means faster data transmission and more robust video, Internet and voice services — not to mention bandwidth-hungry future applications, delivered by optical fibre.
For the whole story, visit Dimensions — NRC's new online magazine featuring exciting advances in Canadian science.
Here are some other highlights of what you'll find in Dimensions:
- Nanoprobes sniff out bad bugs: Miniscule probes that can quickly identify dangerous bacteria such as Salmonella could allow faster, simpler disease diagnoses.
- Virtual training for troops: A new virtual reality tool can enhance training for soldiers, police, fire and emergency measures personnel.
- Early warning for leaky pipes: Wireless sensors that "listen" for leaks in water pipes could help cities save on water resources, energy and money.
- Fuel cells power Olympic transit: Dozens of "green" Canadian technologies will be showcased at the 2010 Olympics, including a bus fleet that runs on fuel cells instead of diesel.
- An unlikely superhero: A Canadian research network is exploring how the potato could benefit human health and the environment.
