Wavelength conversion techniques in optical networks

Wavelength interchange will become an important function in optical networks. The most fully equipped nodes in future optical networks will include spatial switching and wavelength conversion to ensure the largest degree of flexibility and best performance with regard to blocking of paths in the network. One of the major benefits of optical networks will be their ability to support a variety of optical signal wavelengths and formats and, therefore, a high degree of "transparency" will be required for the wavelength interchange function. The wavelength conversion device which performs the function of wavelength interchange may impose the most significant limitation of the transparency of the network because of the degradation caused in optical signal quality. In particular, the wavelength converter may limit the data format and bit-rate allowed on the network, as well as the allowed all-optical signal propagation distances on the network.