Patent ID: 6014248
Filing Date: 2000-01-11
Classification: H04B,H04J

Abstract:
A wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) optical signal amplifier which maintains an optical output power level thereof at a constant level, comprising:a plurality of electrical-to-optical conversion means, each having an output power level that is controllable, for converting given electrical signals to optical signals;wavelength division multiplexing means for producing a WDM optical signal by multiplexing the optical signals supplied from said plurality of electrical-to-optical conversion means;optical amplification means for amplifying the WDM optical signal supplied from said wavelength division multiplexing means, collectively for all different wavelength components contained therein;optical splitting means for splitting a WDM feedback optical signal off from the WDM optical signal supplied from said optical amplification means;wavelength division demultiplexing means for producing a plurality of optical feedback signals having different wavelengths by demultiplexing the WDM optical feedback signal supplied from said optical splitting means;a plurality of optical power level detection means for detecting optical power levels of the individual optical feedback signals having different wavelengths which are obtained by said wavelength division demultiplexing means; andcontrol means for controlling the individual output power levels of said plurality of electrical-to-optical conversion means so that the optical power levels detected by said plurality of optical power level detection means will coincide with each other.