Virtual wavelength path cross-connect based on optoelectronic wavelength conversion

This paper describes the system design and performance of a virtual wavelength path cross-connect (VWP-XC); we demonstrate its function of wavelength conversion, cross-connection, and transportation. We realize a feasible wavelength conversion technique using an optical receiver and a tunable DBR laser. Frequency stability of a 100 GHz-spaced wavelength-converted signal is confirmed by a multiwavelength simultaneous monitoring circuit (MSMC) to be within 100 MHz. VWP cross-connection and error free transportation over 160 km and four 120 km spans (480 km with 3 repeaters) is confirmed in a five-node VWP network.