Practical implementation of the WD/TD optical network in a broadcast station

The paper explains the basic design concept of the video/audio signal network in the new broadcast station of Fuji Television Network Inc. The newly developed wavelength-division and time-division hybrid multiplexed (WD/TD) optical network will be implemented in order to extend possibilities in the multimedia era. The WD/TD optical network is the rational system to reduce drastically the work of the distribution operator in the signal distribution center. A prototype WD/TD optical network has been developed to examine the basic operation and preliminary reliability issues. The prototype has been designed to distribute/transmit 240 digital NTSC video signals, employing a newly developed flat gain optical amplifier, and 2.29 Gb/s time-division multiplexer/selector. The prototype is undergoing field trials at the master control room of Fuji Television Network Inc. Based on the results of the trials, the network in the new broadcast station will be designed and constructed. The authors think that this system will become a major system for distribution and transmission