Error probability of transparent optical networks with optical multiplexers/demultiplexers

This letter presents an accurate model for the evaluation of the error probability of transparent multiwavelength optical networks with cascaded optical multiplexers/demultiplexers (MUX/DMUXs). The error probability evaluation takes into account arbitrary pulse shapes, arbitrary optical MUX/DMUX and electronic lowpass filter transfer functions, intersymbol interference, and the accurate (non-Gaussian) noise probability density function at the output of the optically preamplified direct-detection receiver. As an example, the model is used to study the cascadability of arrayed waveguide grating routers in conjunction with nonreturn-to-zero pulses.