On using all-optical burst-mode power equalization in converged metro-access networks

The current deployment of optical fibre in the access segment is driving the convergence of metro and access networks, typically in the form of hybrid WDM/TDM systems. Due to the use of TDM in the access network, the traffic per wavelength is transmitted in burst-mode, incurring in all the associated physical constraints. In this context, it is proposed to use an all-optical burst-mode power equalization scheme to mitigate the near-far effect characteristic of such systems, by reducing the dynamic range necessary in the receivers. An assessment of the benefits brought to the system is presented.