Ultra-Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) Transceivers

An ultra-dense wavelength-division-multiplexed optical communications system is proposed which utilizes a patented technique for optical injection-locking of multiple laser diodes to an optical reference comb generated by a mode-locked laser. Theinjection-locked laser diodes form an ultra-dense array of transmitters that are individually modulated with independent data streams. Locking of laser diodes to a MLL comb with frequency spacing of 1 GHz was demonstrated under a previous DARPA contract.Novel detection schemes are proposed to be investigated for separating the channels at the receiver, as well as system performance issues.The proposed ultra-dense WDM system will enable very high aggregate data rates, while allowing each channel to run atdata rates less than 1 GB/sec. In addition to the benefits of interfacing with low-cost, low-power CMOS circuitry, the proposed technique will permit ultra-long distance transmission at improved data transfer rates on installed legacy fiber/amplifierchains.