RED-C amplifiers target next-generation ROADM networks

RED-C Optical Networks Ltd. has unveiled a variety of high-density EDFA packages for integration in ROADM line cards. It also has announced a four-pump hybrid Raman-EDFA module that it says enables dynamic path reconfiguration.

The new high-density packages may contain two, four, or eight EDFAs for integration on a ROADM line card. EDFA within a given module can support full WDM operation, including transient suppression, and can be controlled separately from the other EDFAs in the module, RED-C says.

Meanwhile, for applications where WDM channels may have to cover extended distances without regeneration, RED-C’s new hybrid Raman-EDFA comprises three Raman pumps and one EDFA pump to provide the necessary OSNR performance. The new hybrid amplifier offers a noise figure of 0 dB, which contrasts to the approximate 6 dB encountered with a conventional EDFA, RED-C asserts. This feature enables up to a four-fold increase in the optical path length between regenerators, according to the company.

As with the RED-C’s other hybrid Raman-EDFAs, the new module integrates a distributed Raman pre-amplifier and a variable gain EDFA. The integrated control circuitry operates in advanced automatic gain control (AGC) mode so that the combined Raman and EDFA gain is accurately measured and controlled, including fast transient suppression, according to RED-C. The module operation and interface are similar to those of a traditional variable gain EDFAs, and therefore require no special system adaptations, the company addes. The module is classified as Class 1M with respect to laser safety.

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