Point-to-Multipoint Optical Networks Using Coherent Digital Subcarriers

A paradigm shift in optical communication networks is proposed, with the introduction of a new ecosystem devices and components capability transforming current point-to-point (with their entailed, limiting, electrical aggregation) into flexible, scalable cost-effective point-to-multipoint networks. In architecture, which better aligns hub-and-spoke traffic patterns observed today's metro access network segments, interoperability across variety transceivers operating at different speeds achieved using individually routed, digitally generated subcarriers. The first comprehensive demonstration technical feasibility proposed architecture based on digital subcarrier multiplexing presented, along remarkable cost savings simplification it enables.