Optical Tech

Oclaro delivers dynamic spectrum capabilities on 2x1 wavelength selective switch

Sept. 15, 2010

SEPTEMBER 15, 2010 -- Oclaro Inc., a tier-one provider of optical communications and laser systems, announced a new dynamic spectrum wavelength selective switch that provides telecommunications operators an upgrade path to deliver increased bandwidth in the future without having to replace costly networking equipment.

The Oclaro dynamic spectrum 2x1 wavelength selective switch (WSS) is designed to support multiple and future modulation schemes for different filter widths, enabling operators to quickly, easily, and inexpensively meet the increasing demand for higher transmission speeds. The dynamic spectrum 2x1 WSS are compatible with the Oclaro 2x1 WSS modules shipping to customers.

"Consumer demand for higher bandwidth continues to grow at a steady rate and operators worldwide are scrambling to provide the highest speeds at the most affordable price points," says Dr. Krishna Bala, EVP WSS Division at Oclaro. "We designed our dynamic spectrum 2x1 WSS to meet these needs by enabling an easy and inexpensive way to increase bandwidth in the network without having to change out the WSS. We are also developing dynamic spectrum for Oclaro's high port count WSS to extend this capability to all ROADM applications."

On September 22, 12:20 p.m. at the ECOC show, Dr. Bala will speak on a panel titled "Packet Optical Transport: Implications for Optical Component." In his talk, Bala will describe how the insatiable demand for applications such as video and data storage are driving a fundamental shift in optical core networks from fixed-rings to integrated packet-optical meshes. He will also discuss how this market situation is driving two fundamental requirements for optical components:

The development of devices that support 100 Gb/s and beyond transport; and
The development of next-generation WSS/ROADMs that include the ability to support colorless, directionless and contentionless functionality.