Abstract

Optical path technologies such as WP (wavelength path) and VWP (virtual wavelength path) will play a key role in the transport network evolution.¹ They enhance not only transmission capacity but also cross-connect node throughput cost-effectively by capitalizing on the wavelength routing scheme. A new cross-connect system architecture has been proposed that has various advantages; WP to VWP up-gradability, modular growth capability, and low optical loss and cross talk. The architecture exploits PLCs (planer lightwave circuits). Recent cross-connect experiments demonstrate the technical feasibility of the large scale optical path cross-connect.²

© 1996 Optical Society of America