Versatile Low - Complex 16 - QAM Optical Transmitter Driven by Binary Signals

Currently deployed optical networks rely on WDM signals operated over a fixed ITU-grid frequency spectrum and employing fixed transmission technologies. The recent availability of grid-less filters together with the progresses in transmission and detection technologies, is driving the introduction of fully flexible multi-rate optical networks, expected to significantly improve spectrum efficiency and resource utilization. Flexible transponders will enable the configuration of bit-rate, modulation format, optical launch power, and FEC according to bandwidth requirements and optical reach. New components, transmission technologies (e.g., OFDM), ROADM architectures are key enablers. In addition, network planning, control plane and standardization activities are expected to efficiently support cost-effective implementations. This full day workshop explores the state-of-the-art, the potentials and the actual limitations of expected flexible optical networks. The event brings together technical contributions ranging from enabling component technologies and transmission techniques to networking, techno-economic evaluations and market implications. The workshop includes a lively panel and audience debate to discuss and deepen the opinions of researchers, operators, device, and equipment vendors. ________________________________________________________________________________