A method of lifeline communication in WDM passive optical networks

We propose and demonstrate a novel method of lifeline communication, providing an emergency voice communication channel for fiber-to-the-home based on wavelength-division multiple-access passive optical network (WDM-PON). The WDM-PON is realized with wavelength-locked Fabry-Pe/spl acute/rot laser diodes. The total power consumption for lifeline communication is estimated at about 20 mW including 10 mW on the laser. The lifeline can be maintained for about 20 h with a conventional coin type battery.