Ultra-wide band WDM networks and supporting technologies

Abstract

Wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) offers higher capacity and more flexibility to optical networks, and is being actively researched and developed throughout the world. The fully wavelength furnished optical network (FWFON) which uses ultra-wide bandwidth and wavelength-based network functions will offer channel capacity enhancement, node processing improvement, and flexible service provisioning, in addition to other new functions based on wavelength. This paper first clarifies network evolution through the utilization of wavelength to realize several network functions together with the implication of technology enhancement; and key issues are summarized.