ATM-based optical code division multiplexing transport network using coherent ultrashort pulses

We investigate the feasibility of introducing optical code division multiplexing (OCDM) technique in the path layer and propose an ATM-based OCDM network architecture using ultrashort light pulses. In the proposed network, all the processes of cells in the path layer operate in the optical domain prior to reaching the final destination node. Since each bit can be addressed individually with this technique, the realization of ATM protocols can be easily ensured. Optical technology can be reliably introduced in the path layer and an optical cross-connect (OXC) becomes an important component because it emulates the code conversion as the switching function. The OXC not only provides asynchronous access to each optical code path (OCP) but also has dynamic bandwidth allocation capability. A lookup table is used in the switching and updated through network management functions. We examine the performance considering different parameters and discuss methods to improve the performance.