Novel wavelength/waveband cross connect architecture based on optical wavelength converters and a passive wavelength router

Abstract

A novel optical cross-connect architecture supporting both wavelength and waveband switching granularities, with reduced component requirements, is proposed. Experimental results indicate that a power penalty lower than 1 dB is introduced by this system.

Optical cross-connect architecture using waveband conversion and a passive wavelength router

“…The AWG facilitates routing of each individual wavelength to a specific output. This way each wavelength is independently directed to the required output port, although each band of wavelengths is routed simultaneously [9]. Previous work utilising single channel wavelength conversion combined with an AWG router to achieve switching has already been published [12 -14], however, to the best of our knowledge, this work proposes a novel configuration utilising WBCs and investigates its implications.…”

“…These features significantly improve the overall component count, cost, and power consumption of the node supporting reduced capital and operational expenditure in practical networks. Figure 1 shows the schematic diagram of an NÂN fibre OXC based on the proposed design [9]. This scheme relies on wavelength routing, where optical signals are switched to the appropriate output ports through waveband converters (WBC) and an MÂM AWG router.…”