In a groundbreaking presentation at the 38th Chaos Communication Congress (38C3), hacker Benjojo showcased how he was able to extend the reach of Toslink traffic, typically limited to 10 meters, to an astonishing 143 kilometers. This accomplishment was followed up by fellow hacker Manawyrm, who demonstrated IP-over-Toslink based on Benjojo’s findings. The speed achieved may not be jaw-dropping given the cable’s limitations, but the sheer fact that it was achieved at all is nothing short of impressive.
Benjojo’s detailed account of his experiment, including technical specifications, was shared on his blog, shedding light on how he managed to stretch the boundaries of optical data transmission using Toslink technology. The process involved various unconventional methods and required significant input from data centers to achieve the remarkable distance of 143.2 kilometers, far surpassing the typical range of 10 meters for Toslink cables.
The essence of this endeavor lies in pushing the boundaries of optical data transmission, showcasing that even outdated technologies like Toslink can still deliver remarkable results with the right approach. However, it’s important to note that for everyday users, Toslink cables are not practical as fiber networking solutions, especially considering the capped speeds of around 1,536 kbit/s or 0.19 MB/s.
Manawyrm further explored the possibilities of IP-over-Toslink in her own project, achieving real-world transmission speeds of approximately 1.47 Mb/s or 0.18 MB/s. While this falls slightly short of Toslink’s maximum capacity, it represents a significant leap in utilizing the cable to its fullest potential.
The collaboration between Benjojo and Manawyrm underscores the versatility of optical data cables and the potential for innovation in expanding their capabilities beyond conventional usage. The technical expertise and relentless determination displayed in their experiments highlight the drive to explore technology’s limits and push boundaries in unconventional ways.
Despite the remarkable achievements in extending Toslink’s reach and exploring IP-over-Toslink applications, it is essential to recognize that practical applications for such endeavors may be limited. Traditional networking cables continue to serve as the primary solution for data transmission, emphasizing the importance of practicality and efficiency in technological advancements.
In conclusion, the experiments conducted by Benjojo and Manawyrm serve as a testament to the endless possibilities of technological innovation. While the utilization of Toslink for long-distance data transmission may not have immediate practical implications, the lessons learned and boundaries pushed pave the way for future advancements in optical data transmission technology.