Optical Transceiver Port Configuration Switch for Mode Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical transceivers for optical access networks, such as WDM PONs, are limited by their inability to seamlessly switch between unidirectional and bidirectional operation modes without manual reconfiguration and require additional equipment, leading to increased costs and complexity in operation, administration, and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
An optical transceiver with a programmable port configuration switch that can switch between unidirectional and bidirectional modes using adjustable signal sources and multiplexing/demultiplexing functions, enabling selective signal routing and path protection through diverse paths, and utilizing a combination of couplers and variable optical attenuators for controlled signal passing and blocking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If existing optical transceivers are used for WDM PONs, then optical signal transmission is achieved, but manual reconfiguration is required when switching between unidirectional and bidirectional modes
Solution Approach 1:
The optical transceiver incorporates a port configuration switch that can dynamically change its state between unidirectional and bidirectional modes based on control signals. This dynamic switching capability eliminates the need for manual reconfiguration, as the system automatically adapts its port operation mode through electronic control of the switch states, thereby improving automation while maintaining ease of operation.
2Device complexity
If existing optical transceivers are used for WDM PONs, then optical communication is enabled, but additional equipment is required for mode switching
Solution Approach 1:
The optical transceiver is designed with a universal port configuration switch that can perform multiple functions: it enables both unidirectional and bidirectional port operations, provides path protection switching, and supports automated mode transitions. This multi-functional switch eliminates the need for separate dedicated equipment for mode switching and path protection, thereby reducing device complexity and the quantity of additional equipment required.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the mode switching function and path protection function into a single port configuration switch integrated within the optical transceiver. By combining these previously separate functions into one unified component, the system reduces the total number of equipment pieces needed while maintaining all necessary capabilities for flexible optical network operation.
3Ease of manufacture
If existing optical transceivers are used for WDM PONs, then basic optical transmission is achieved, but operation and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optical transceiver implements self-service capabilities through automated mode switching and path protection functions controlled by the integrated port configuration switch. The system can automatically detect signal conditions, switch between unidirectional and bidirectional modes, and activate path protection without human intervention. This automation reduces operational and maintenance costs by eliminating manual reconfiguration tasks and enabling the system to manage itself, thereby improving both ease of manufacture and extent of automation simultaneously.
Data Source
AI summary
According to various aspects of the present disclosure, an apparatus is provided. In an aspect, the apparatus includes an optical transceiver having a first port, a second port and an optical switch coupled to the first port and the second port. The optical switch is switchable between a unidirectional port operation mode and a bidirectional port operation mode. When the optical switch is in the unidirectional port operation mode, the first port is configured to send a first optical signal, and the second port configured to receive a second optical signal. When the optical switch is in the bidirectional port operation mode, the first port configured to send the first optical signal and receive the second optical signal, and the second port configured to receive a third optical signal and not send the first signal. Furthermore, a second bidirectional port operation mode is supported with the second port configured to send the first optical signal and receive the second optical signal, and the first port configured to receive a third optical signal and not send the first signal.