1 March 2016

II-VI introduces burst-mode gain-controlled optical amplifier for NG-PON2 broadband access networks

Engineered materials and optoelectronic component maker II-VI Inc of Saxonburg, PA, USA (which provides solutions for next-generation optical networks) has announced prototype-stage availability of a burst-mode gain-controlled optical amplifier designed for upstream transmission in NG-PON2 broadband access networks.

The Full Service Access Network (FSAN) industry interest group has selected TWDM (time and wavelength division multiplexed) PON technology as the NG-PON2 standard for the next-generation passive optical network architecture. This architecture supports the convergence of the communication infrastructure for services such as residential broadband, enterprise access and wireless backhaul. II-VI has developed an optical amplifier for TWDM PON upstream links using patent-pending technology.

"This new technology showcases our ability to leverage our core expertise and deliver application-specific optical amplifier solutions," says Dr Sanjai Parthasarathi, VP, product marketing & strategy, Optical Communications Group. "We designed an optical amplifier to match the requirements of TWDM PON upstream transmission and enable service providers to increase bandwidth to their subscribers over their existing passive optical network infrastructure," he adds. 

Passive optical networks are economical due to their broadcast architecture. II-VI says that its new optical amplifier implements a novel gain-control technique that adapts instantaneously to rapid changes in optical signal levels received, as subscribers take turns communicating upstream from various distances. This fast adaptability enables service providers to scale up the bandwidth on their existing distribution infrastructure, while the time-shared functionality minimizes capital expenditures.

II-VI's burst-mode gain-controlled optical amplifiers have completed customer laboratory trials. Prototype units are available for evaluation.

Tags: II-VI Inc

Visit: www.ii-vi-photonics.com