Network-wide blocking probability in sparse limited wavelength convertible WDM networks

We develop an analytical model to evaluate the network-wide blocking probability with sparse limited wavelength conversion in an arbitrary network topology, given the traffic loads and locations of limited wavelength converters with various degrees of conversion ability. The analytical model is applied to network examples such as the irregular NSFNET and the regular mesh-torus with uniform and nonuniform Poisson traffic. Our analytical and simulation results show that the analytical model is efficient and accurate. We also demonstrate how the analytical techniques can be used for studying wavelength converter placement in wavelength-routed optical networks.