Title :
Optical communications: past, present and future
Author_Institution :
Dept. of Electr. Eng., Bradford Univ., UK
Abstract :
A quiet revolution is taking place in communications technology, where light is replacing its low-frequency counterparts, the radio wave and signals by wire. The author traces the development of optical communication technology from simple beginnings using fire and beacons, through early valve and solid-state devices to integrated optics and advanced fibre systems. Because of the very rapid growth in the area recently, only a sample of current developments can be presented. Leading-edge developments are considered in the light of current and advancing technologies
Keywords :
integrated optics; integrated optoelectronics; optical communication; optical communication equipment; optical fibres; optical links; reviews; fibre systems; integrated optics; integrated optoelectronics; optical communication technology; optical fibres; review;
Journal_Title :
Electronics & Communication Engineering Journal
