Petabit-class Optical Networks Based on Spatial-Division Multiplexing Technologies

We have developed a spatial division multiplexing (SDM) based hierarchical optical switching test-bed capable of handling optical signals with elastic granularity from 10 Tb/s to 1 Pb/s. We have demonstrated some network scenarios of add/drop, express, protection switching, optical channel grooming and SDM tributaries with coupled and uncoupled spatial channels. This demonstration made use of large-scale and low-loss optical switches based on MEMS technology and three types of SDM fibers. This is a major step toward the early implementation of petabit-class backbone optical networks capable of supporting the increasing requirements of internet services such as broadband video streaming, 5G mobile networks or Internet of Things.