Objetivo
The deployment of wavelength-division-multiplexed (WDM) systems has allowed for unparalleled network upgrading in network capacity and transmission lengths. As WDM technology advances towards cost-sensitive Metropolitan Area Networks (MAN) and even Access Networks, a major problem identified is the high complexity and cost of WDM transmitters. WDM test and network architectures currently rely on large banks of continuous-wave lasers, which are often tunable in wavelength. Each single laser source acts as an optical source for a single wavelength (channel), requiring its own drive electronics and current/temperature controlling. Aside from the high initial cost of this approach, upgrading such high capacity WDM network means adding a laser source for each additional channel required leading to unacceptable installation cost. MULTIWAVE aims at developing a compact, cost-effective light source suitable for deployment in current and future broadband optical networks, reducing the complexity of the transmitter architecture and relaxing the demands on power, heat, inventory and space of optical network terminals. MULTIWAVE will provide a single plug-and-play device that can be used as a high-channel-count, multi-wavelength optical source with a potential to cover all optical telecommunication windows. MULTIWAVE was conceived and designed giving highest priority to cost-effectiveness and upgradeability. The proposed optical source is based on a solid theoretical understanding and preliminary research activity shows promising results. MULTIWAVE envisages the development of a complete WDM optical source, significantly broadening the expertise of the partners and strengthening the SMEs participating as well the European position in the world-wide market of optical telecommunications.
Ámbito científico
Convocatoria de propuestas
FP6-2003-SME-1
Consulte otros proyectos de esta convocatoria