Performance of an optical IP router using non-degenerate buffers

We describe optical buffers with non-uniform distribution of the delay lines, so-called nondegenerate buffers. Coupled with an intelligent scheduling algorithm, nondegenerate buffers feature improved system performance leading to more efficient and larger optical buffers for optical IP routers. We demonstrate that the concept under bursty, both time-slotted and asynchronous traffic conditions, can lead to a sizable reduction in buffer depth requirements compared to conventional solutions. The simulations point to the fact that in optical IP routers operating under asynchronous conditions, this would almost be a mandatory solution.