Abstract: An encoding/decoding device for OCDMA communications with an optical network is provided. The device uses a single reflecting element to perform both the encoding of outgoing signal and the decoding of incoming signal. A directional optical assembly allows to differentiate the origin of the signals to forward the outgoing signals after encoding to the network and the incoming signals after decoding to a receiver.

Abstract: Optical sources and transmitters for transmitting data in a spectro-temporally encoded light signal are provided. The optical source includes a pumped gain medium for generating ASE radiation. A wavelength dependent reflector is provided backward of the gain medium for reflecting wavebands adapted for spectro-temporal encoding. In one embodiment, a modulator and an encoder are provided outside of the source for embedding data into the generated signal spectro-temporally encoding this signal. In another embodiment, the wavelength dependent reflector acts as the encoder, and the modulator is provided inside the source.