A WDM optical network for avionics

Fly-by-light has been a research and development area for the last 15 years, and much progress has been made in many areas involving the components technologies. The next phase of developments in fly-by-light involves systems and architectural issues together with parameters that requires integration of such components in the next generation avionics and fly-by-light systems. Such deployments of optical networking technology for all communications, command, and control functions within an aircraft are compelling. Moreover, wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) is particularly useful for supporting diverse applications in a systematic and comprehensive manner. This paper describes a basic WDM architecture utilizing: 1) passive optical coupling for distributed signal collection (multiplexing), 2) passive optical splitting for signal distribution and separation (demultiplexing), and 3) centralized processing of information bearing signals utilizing multi-processors for demanding applications or multiprogrammed computers for less demanding functions. Standardized WDM interfaces on generic processor cards in the centralized locations support a variety of network structures. Key considerations in the chosen architecture are: 1) built-in performance monitoring, 2) automatic protection switching for fault tolerance, 3) accommodation of existing applications, and 4) extensibility to future, unknown applications.