Photonic Multiple Access Networks: Topologies.

Lightwave technology is well-established for long-haul and point-to-point applications. Current research is aimed at extending these techniques to multiple access computer networks and to the distribution plant. We explore the opportunities for interconnecting many (>100) users at high data rates (>1 Gb/s) and the need for novel optoelectronic components to realize these photonic networks of the future. This TM on "Topologies" and the companion TM on "Routing and Multiplexing" have been prepared for the AT&T Technical Journal.