ITR: Forward Error Correction Codes and Protocols for Next-Generation Optical Networks

University Of Arizona, Tucson AZ

Investigators

Abstract

The goal of the proposed research is to develop a framework for forward error control (FEC) in combination with bandwidth management and routing in optical networks that is aware of optical channel characteristics and can allocate network resources to optimize system performance. The FEC schemes are based on low-density parity-check codes and iterative joint detection/decoding techniques that mitigate (linear and nonlinear) distortion and crosstalk. The adaptive error protection FEC techniques will be developed that are tailored for the time-varying characteristics of requirements of optical networks. Network management protocols supporting novel FEC schemes will be developed and tested to demonstrate their efficiency and benefit in next generation optical networks. Novel network path selection algorithms will be developed for primary and backup paths in heterogeneous environments that satisfy constraints imposed by both variable network requests and the physical layer. The project will also give the extent to which the combined coding and network management techniques can be used to relax constraints on optical communications materials and devices.