Optical Networks

The classification of optical networks into global networks is discussed. Communication technologies such as point-to-point (peer-to-peer), distribution systems or point-to-multipoint connections, and ring networks or bus systems are explained. In particular, the access to the end customer via fiber optics (FTTX, especially Fiber-to-the-Home, FTTH) is described. Optical multiplexing techniques such as space division multiplexing (SDM), time division multiplexing (TDM), and frequency division multiplexing (FDM) or wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) are discussed in detail. Different WDM technologies such as wide WDM (WWDM), coarse WDM (CWDM), dense or ultra-dense WDM (DWDM, UDWDM), and code division multiplexing (CDM or CDMA) are explained. Finally, the requirements for WDM systems are discussed.