Photo Anneli Larsson

Bengt O. Hallberg



Scientist, engineer, and author in STEM and photonics in particular


- follow my blog, lectures, what i write and consult me for R&D strategies at universities and corporate  departments.


- provide assistance to the media during news broadcasts and for articles related to light (photons).



From fundamental theory into practical results.


MY BUSINESS, HISTORY AND FUTURE TRENDS



In my blogs and lectures, I will share the experiences that my colleagues and I have had. Thanks to our research, development, and technology, we have contributed to the development of our societies. Unfortunately, many of those who participated in that work have passed away or retired without receiving the recognition they deserved.


You can follow me by keeping an eye on my blog. It will be my main channel for reaching worldwide exposure. I will only be active on this website. If you want to follow me, I recommend doing so here.


I want to share my experiences from 1976 onwards, which would otherwise be lost. But I will do more than just tell a story. I can still identify early trends and make long-term predictions in the industry. 


I began my career with a master's thesis in engineering physics, focusing on fiber optic theory and measurement technology at the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH). In 1978, I was assigned the task of starting a Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) project at the Institute of Optical Research (IOF), which was connected to KTH. When the funding ended, I decided to continue my research and development at BOH Optical AB. I was the sole owner of the company.


My team and I designed and developed the world's first WDM-system completed in 1985. We then designed a second system presented in 1987. From 1988 to 2000, I worked on fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) technology. Some of this has since become a global standard.


In 1995, I was hired as head of research at Ericsson's Fiber Network Application Lab (FINAL). There, we solved the problem of connecting each subscriber by developing cost-effective, practical air-blown fiber (ABF) technology and systems for blowing fiber into microtubes with compressed air. British Telecom had developed a similar system, but it was far too cumbersome. From 1997 to 2000 I became Director of System Strategy Access Networks at Ericsson Inc. with office on Manhattan, New York City, NY and introduced our fiber optic technology in the US.


In 2005, I shifted my focus. I wanted to fulfill another major goal in life: to write fiction, but still follow the developments at the forefront in photonics. Now I master the entire process from idea to publication of printed books, audiobooks, and e-books. It is fantastic to feel the freedom that comes with being able to write both fiction and non-fiction. During this time, I also discovered the beauty of haiku poetry.


Only about ten million people speak Swedish. But the subject I research and write about requires a larger audience. Therefore, I have decided to write in English from now on. My two-decade journey into the world of the humanities was interesting. Unlike STEM, it was not characterized by a strict approach. In addition to fiction authors, professionals in law and economics also contribute to this field. Through their language skills, they have gained enormous influence over global developments. As STEM professionals, we must take greater responsibility for what we create. Good language skills are important in this regard.


Year 2025, I decided to return to STEM and use my experience as a researcher, engineer, and author to inspire others who want to pursue a career in this field. Of course, I also welcome all of you who are interested in what I have to offer. The developments within the EU are very interesting. In terms of population, it is the third largest power in the world. In my opinion, our union faces similar challenges to those Sweden faces. We must become better at providing support to skilled STEM professionals. If we can do that, our future will be bright. It is also important that we in the EU learn to stand out without necessarily sticking out in order to get respect in world.


In addition to putting Sweden and the Nordic region on the historical map of fiber optic development up to the turn of the millennium alongside Japan, the UK, and the US I hope to inspire you young people to pursue a career in STEM. I will support you as long as I can, whether you are scientists, engineers, or skilled craftsmen. Remember that lifelong learning is the key.


You are needed!

Sweden´s Forgotten WDM Breakthrough


At BOH Strategy, I manage the legacy of BOH Optical AB (1981–1995) with two WDM systems from the 1980s and research and development in FTTH until 1995.

PROPAGATION IN OPTICAL FIBERS

WDM

FTTH

Photonics


Photonics is part of physics. In Sweden, there is a university program called engineering physics (teknisk fysik), which is considered to be the most challenging education. It is part of STEM and combines pure physics and mathematics with technology, and originated in Germany. It was introduced at KTH in Stockholm in 1932.


Developing WDM systems and FTTH required expertise and knowledge in photonics, telecommunications, wave transmission, electronics, and mechanics. The projects involved people with high academic qualifications as well as technicians with a high level of professional expertise.

  • Photonics
  • Telecommunication
  • Wave transmisson
    and also
  • Electronics
  • Mechanics
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