Reconfigurable radio-over-fiber networks: Multiple access functionality directly over the optical layer (Invited)

Title : Reconfigurable radio-over-fiber networks: Multiple access functionality directly over the optical layer (Invited)
Author : J. J. Vegas Olmos, T. Kuri, and K. Kiatayama
Journal : to appear in IEEE Trans. Microwave Theory and Tech.
Abstract : This paper explores different functionalities that can be implemented directly over the optical layer paving the way for future for converged wireless and wired services optical networks. Wireless technologies operating over optical networks mainly employ radio-over-fiber (RoF) technologies, which effectively help to manipulate micro- and millimeter-wave band signals. We have experimented with different generation technologies in order to achieve distribution of micro- and millimeter-wave signals operating at different bands, ranging from few GHz up to 60 GHz. We will show how such technologies, in combination with novel devices, can be used to enable networks in which dynamic channel allocation (DCA) and peer-to-peer (P2P) are carried entirely in the optical domain. Furthermore, since wireless and wired services fall within the domain of optical access networks, we will demonstrate the performance of basic functionalities, such as distribution, transmission and recovery at the local access points (APs).