All-optical programmable time-slot-interchanger using optical-label switching with tunable wavelength conversion and N by N arrayed waveguide grating routers

Abstract

We demonstrate an all-optical packet-based time-slot interchanger using tunable wavelength conversion, N/spl times/N AWGRs and fiber delay lines. Wavelength conversion is realized using tunable laser and SOA cross-gain modulation. This scheme is not only compatible to the optical-label switching, but also scalable, power-efficient and programmable. Future improvements can be expected by using a different wavelength conversion technology and tunable laser power equalization.