Optical Switch for Networks Using Wavelength Division Multiplexing

摘要

A switch for switching optical signals. The switch includes a plurality of inputs, wherein each of the plurality of inputs receives one of a plurality of input signals, and at least one coupling element operably connected to two or more of the plurality of inputs and configured to combine at least two of the input signals into a combined output signal. The switch further includes a splitting element operably connected to the at least one coupling element and configured to demultiplex the combined output signal to produce a plurality of demultiplexed output signals. A control plane processor is operably connected to at least one of the plurality of inputs and is configured to determine a schedule for one or more devices operably connected to the plurality of inputs to transmit data bursts.