Experimental characterization of impairments induced by link-control-channels in DWDM systems

To reduce in-line amplifier power transients induced by optical power variations, link control channel might be considered. This technique can lead to significant transmission degradations. We present a numerical and experimental characterization of such degradation effects. We determine which control channels power levels and grid spacing are compatible with common DWDM links specifications. These results could be used for design rules.