Bottlenecks in next generation DWDM-based optical networks

In this paper, we discuss important issues and bottlenecks faced by the nex t generation dense wavelength division multiplexing-based ultra high-speed optical networks. Dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) is a techni que that increases the information carrying capability of optical networks by transmitting multiple channels at different wavelengths on a single fibe r strand. DWDM-based optical networks promise integration of diverse multim edia services (i.e. voice, data, and video etc.). Additional channels and h igher data rates result in several folds increase in the bandwidth of the n etwork. However, several issues arise by increasing data rates on each chan nel and the number of channels. Nonlinear effects in fiber, erbium-doped op tical amplifier noise, chromatic dispersion, and processing bottlenecks are major limitations. This paper will study these issues from an analytical p oint of view. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.