Wavelength translations for optical network reach extension

摘要

Small form factor pluggable (SFPs) transceivers have been used to demonstrate that legacy optical networks operating in the metro-core-edge region of the network can be upgraded cost effectively through optical-electrical-optical (OEO) wavelength translation (WT). The WT technique involves detection of the original communication signal, re-timing and retransmission at a new laser wavelength and linewidth. The change is a deliberate one and gives rise to better optical transmission characteristics, resulting in longer system reach. In this paper we present experimental results that demonstrate how WT can be used to upgrade existing fiber systems through improvements in system dispersion or attenuation or by making optical amplification possible.