Next generation DWDM networks: demands, capabilities and limitations

With continuous growth in optical networks, demands on them are also increasing. This in itself is a positive feedback cycle. Dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) is a technique that increases the information carrying capability of optical networks by transmitting multiple wavelengths on the same fiber. However, nonlinear effects in the fiber, erbium-doped optical amplifier noise, electronic and processing bottlenecks are major limitations. We discuss these important issues for the next generation ultra-dense wavelength division multiplexing networks.