Agile and highly efficient wavelength conversion using highly nonlinear fiber for optical code-labeled packets

Wavelength conversion enhances transparency, interoperability, and efficient wavelength resource utilization in wavelength-division-multiplexing networks. Several devices are used for wavelength conversion, such as the electroabsorption modulator, semiconductor optical amplifier, periodically poled lithium niobate modulator, and highly nonlinear fiber (HNLF). HNLF is promising because it offers high conversion efficiency and phase-preservation between the input and output signals; it also provides immunity from pattern effects. Furthermore, a combination of HNLF and a distributed-feedback laser diode (DFB-LD) array used as a pump light source enables agile wavelength conversion for photonic packet switch networks. In this letter, we discuss our demonstration of agile and highly efficient wavelength conversion of optical code-labeled packets by using HNLF and an eight-DFB-LD array module. We obtained a switching time of less than 1 ns, and the wavelength stability of the LD pump was within 0.04 nm.