Programmable SDN-enabled S-BVT based on hybrid electro-optical MCM

A programmable software-defined networking- enabled (SDN-enabled) sliceable bit rate variable transceiver based on hybrid electro-optical multicarrier modulation as a key enabler for superchannel generation in future 5G metro networks is proposed. Multiple discrete multitone signals can be multiplexed/demultiplexed with optical orthogonal transform processors such as spectral selective switches (SSSs). By implementing optical spectrally efficient transforms at the SSSs, we are able to generate a high-capacity superchannel to support the transmission targets envisioned in 5G networks. Specifically, the optimal transform can be programmed by the control plane through the corresponding SDN agents by suitably configuring the phase and attenuation of the SSS ports. Furthermore, with the adoption of multicarrier modulation formats, increased system/network flexibility is achieved. In this work, two different transceiver configurations have been proposed and assessed. They are based on intensity modulation with direct detection and amplitude modulation with coherent reception. A flexible receiver configuration selection is envisioned according to the target network requirements/condition.