Optical path cross-connect system using matrix wavelength division multiplex scheme

Wavelength division multiplex (WDM) photonic networks are expected as the k ey for the global communication infrastructure. Recent increase of communic ation demands require large-scale highly-dense WDM systems, which results i n severe requirements for optical cross-connect systems, such as cross-talk specification. In this paper, we propose a new optical path cross-connect system (OPXC) using matrix-WDM scheme, which makes it possible to reduce cr oss-talk requirements of WDM filters and to construct OPXC in modular struc tures. The matrix-WDM scheme is a concept of two-layered optical paths, whi ch provides wavelength group managements in the fiber dispersion equalizati on and EDFA gain equalization.