Broadband Cable Access Networks

Chapter 5. Wavelength Division Multiplexing

5.1. Introduction

Chapter 4 covered the basics of linear fiber-optic signal transport. These are applicable to situations in which just a single optical signal is sent through each fiber. Fibers, however, are capable of carrying multiple independent optical signals on different wavelengths simultaneously with a minimum of mutual interaction. The general term for such shared use of fiber is wavelength division multiplexing (WDM). A network design may choose to use WDM as an economical alternative to installing more fibers or as a means for combining signals that will be detected simultaneously by a common receiver. Both techniques have applications in cable systems.

This chapter will deal with the ...