Transparent wireless access to optical WDM networks using a novel coherent radio-over-fiber (CRoF) approach

A new coherent optical heterodyne radio-over-fiber (CRoF) scheme is presented for the transparent integration of millimeter-wave wireless systems into next generation optical WDM networks. For seamless integration with the (ultra-dense) WDM infrastructure of high-capacity and longer-reach optical access networks, we propose novel radio access units (RAU) based upon a coherent optical heterodyne detection approach. The proposed CRoF concept supports the provision of multiple services over a single optical distribution network including next generation optical and wireless access services and high-capacity fixed wireless links for mobile backhaul. Proof-of-concept experiments for transparent integration of 60 GHz wireless access systems and 70/80 GHz wireless backhauling links will be presented.