Multi-wavelength fiber networks

This paper describes the main trends and design issues in the design of current generation of WDM optical networks, and the enabling factors and motivations that will push to build the next generation transport networks. The latter will benefit from new optical technologies (ultra-long haul, switching,…) to reduce the network cost, and from new control technologies (Generalised Multi-Protocol Label Switching) that will make them dynamically flexible to better serve the changing traffic demands of emerging services. The paper covers all aspects of the network: network design and planning, system and architecture design, technologies, control and management. It also includes an overview of current state of the art and observations/statistics learnt from network studies. To cite this article: L. Berthelon et al., C. R. Physique 4 (2003).