WDM optical components using PLCs

Wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) systems are widely deployed in high-capacity long-haul transmission systems. They can provide cost-effective additional capacity on fibers overloaded by the increase in data traffic. Current WDM systems are used mainly for point-to-point transmission links. Next generation WDM technologies are expected to provide full functionality at both the system and network levels. Next generation WDM system will require many optical components, including optical filters, add/drop multiplexers, circuit switches and wavelength converters. Optical components using planar lightwave circuits (PLCs) are now widely used in WDM systems. Arrayed waveguide gratings (AWGs), in particular, play an important role in current WDM systems. In the next generation system, optical components using PLCs are expected to provide many functions that counterparts cannot. In this paper, we will describe the current and future WDM components using PLCs, focusing on AWGs and switchable add/drop filters.