Wavelength conversion in WDM networks

In future wavelength-division multiplexed (WDM) optical networks the most fully equipped nodes will include both spatial switching and wavelength interchange (wavelength conversion) to enable facile reconfiguration of the network. 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. This presentation will describe wavelength conversion methods based, primarily, on semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOA´s) and compare their performance with regard to degrees of transparency that can be supported and signal degradation properties