Abstract: A wavelength division multiplexer (WDM) unit (12) includes a plurality of Input/Output cards (IOCs 14). Each IOC is bidirectionally coupled to I/O specific media (fiber or copper) and to two coaxial cables. Also bidirectionally coupled to the coaxial cables are a plurality of Laser/Receiver Cards (LRC 20). The interface between the IOCs and the LRCs is an Emitter Coupled Logic (ECL) electrical interface that is conveyed over the coaxial cables. Each LRC is bidirectionally coupled by two single mode fibers to an optical multiplexer and demultiplexer, embodied within a grating (24). An input/output port of the grating is coupled to a fiber link (28) that enables bidirectional, full duplex data communications with a second WDM. Each WDM also includes a Diagnostic Processor Card (DPC 28) that receives status signals from the IOCs and LRCs, that forwards the status signals on to an external processor, and which generates control information for the IOCs and LRCs.

Abstract: This invention provides methods and apparatus for achieving wavelength sorting multiplexer/demultiplexer and its application to the implementation of planarized dynamic wavelength routing. Using integrated arrayed-waveguide gratings, sorting can be achieved by two configurations. In the first configuration channel wavelengths are properly selected and launched into prearranged input waveguides of an arrayed-waveguide grating such that channels at the same wavelength and from all inputs will be demultiplexed and routed to adjacent outputs. Operated in the reverse direction, the same device becomes a sorting multiplexer. The second configuration achieves wavelength sorting by using the cascade of multiple arrayed-waveguide gratings and can also be operated as a demultiplexer or a multiplexer. Combined with space switches, the wavelength sorting multi/demultiplexer are utilized to implement the planarized channel-selective dynamic wavelength router.