Wavelength-multiplexed bit synchronization in optical transmission

An experiment using wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) for bit synchronization is discussed. At the transmitter, the clock and data bit streams that are generated on lasers of two different wavelengths are wavelength multiplexed together onto the same optical fiber. At the receiver, these signals are wavelength demultiplexed. The demultiplexed clock signal at the receiver is used as a strobe to bit synchronize the incoming data stream. Application of this technique to an experimental photonic switching system is described. Design issues associated with the use of the WDM technique for bit synchronization are discussed