WDM Network Architectures - Optical Networks Architecture - Optical Networks | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

WDM network architecture allows for multiple wavelength transmission, providing features such as wavelength reuse, wavelength conversion, transparency, circuit switching, survivability, and light path topology.

Key Insights

• 😋 WDM network architecture supports various topologies, including ring and mesh.
• 🫥 Optical line terminal multiplexes multiple wavelengths into a single fiber and demultiplexes composite WDM signals into individual wavelengths.
• ❓ WDM networks utilize features like wavelength reuse, wavelength conversion, and transparency to enhance efficiency and flexibility.
• 🙂 Circuit switching in WDM networks enables the dynamic setup and takedown of light paths.
• 🙂 Survivability and light path topology provide reliability and a visual representation of network connections.
• 😵 WDM networks support diverse client types, from IP routers to ethernet switches and optical cross connects.
• 😒 Wavelength reuse and spatial reuse capabilities maximize the use of limited wavelengths.

Transcript

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Questions & Answers

Q: What are the key features of WDM network architecture?

The key features of WDM network architecture include wavelength reuse, wavelength conversion, transparency, circuit switching, survivability, and light path topology. These features allow for efficient use of wavelengths, flexibility in data transmission, and network reliability.

Q: How does wavelength reuse work in WDM networks?

Wavelength reuse means utilizing the same wavelength in multiple light paths within the network, as long as they do not overlap. It allows for improved utilization of wavelengths and supports a large number of light paths using a limited number of wavelengths.

Q: What is the significance of wavelength conversion in WDM networks?

Wavelength conversion in WDM networks enables the conversion of light paths to different wavelengths along the route. This enhances wavelength utilization and facilitates the integration of signals from external networks into suitable wavelengths for internal network transmission.

Q: How does circuit switching play a role in WDM networks?

In WDM networks, circuit switching refers to the transfer of data from one device to another based on fixed paths. Optical layer provided light paths can be set up and taken down dynamically, enabling efficient utilization of network resources based on demand.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• WDM network architecture supports various topologies, including ring and mesh, and enables multiplexing and demultiplexing of wavelengths.

• Basic architecture involves a central office connected to multiple destinations through a splitter network.

• WDM networks are typically deployed in linear or ring topologies and support different client types, from IP routers to ethernet switches.