Photonic Switching in Ring-Based Optic Networks.

This memorandum explores the potential of incorporating photonic switching technology in fiber optic ring-based communication networks. Electronically-controlled photonic switching components integrated on lithium niobate crystals are discussed. Possible extensions in high-speed fiber ring architectures with the use of titanium diffused lithium niobate switches are proposed. The potential problems that limit a wide-scale use of these devices in ring network systems are identified. Ring networks are suitable for fiber optic implementation because of their point-to-point communication structure. A 2 x 2 directional coupler can be used at the front end of the ring interface to provide a switching bypass capability for isolating faulty nodes.