Multi-band wavelength dispersive device for use in dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) networks
AssigneeKaiser Optical Systems
InventorsJames M. Tedesco, James Arns
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Multiplexed grating and grating/prism devices are particularly suited to DWDM optical telecommunications networks, finding utility in optical spectrum analyzers (OSAs) and fiber multiplexer/demultiplexers. The invention may be used to address both single- and dual-band configurations through adjustment of the grating, detector array, and/or inclusion of a fiber-optic switch. As a dual-band OSA covering the C- and L-bands, a device according to the invention may be used to replace two separate OSAs like those currently in production, at only a modest increase in cost relative to a single-band OSA.
Claims4
A multi-band optical system applicable to dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM), comprising:
- a first transmission optical grating through which the “C” band of wavelengths in the range of approximately 1530 to 1565 nm transitions to a plurality of dispersed wavelengths at a fold angle;
- a second transmission optical grating supported adjacent to the first transmission optical grating through which the “L” band of wavelengths in the range of approximately 1575 to 1610 nm transitions to a plurality of dispersed wavelengths at substantially the same fold angle;
- and wherein:
- a) one or more optical fibers or waveguides carry each band of wavelengths to the gratings, and an optical detector converts the dispersed wavelengths into electrical signals for use as an optical spectrum analyzer;
- b) one or more optical fibers or waveguides carry each band of wavelengths to the gratings, and a plurality of fibers or waveguides each receives one of the dispersed wavelengths from the grating for use as an optical demultiplexer, or
- c) a plurality of fibers or waveguides are carry used to carry separate wavelengths to the grating, and the grating combines the separate wavelengths an optical fiber or waveguide receives the non-dispersed band of wavelengths from the grating for use as an optical multiplexer.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.