Patent ID: 8682175
Filing Date: 2014-03-25
Classification: H04B

Abstract:
1. A method of receiving signals across a link in an optical network, said optical link nominally carrying signals at a first bit transfer rate, said method comprising: receiving optical signals transmitted over said link; monitoring the quality of transmission of said optical signals on said link, determining whether said quality of transmission indicates a monotonic decline in optical performance over a plurality of predetermined time periods; signaling to a transmitting node to transmit optical signals at a second bit transfer rate lower than said first bit transfer rate if said determination is made; converting electrical signals demodulated from received optical signals into digital signals; and processing said digital signals with an electronic digital filter suitable for said second bit transfer rate to increase the SNR (signal-to-noise ratio) and optimize the BER (bit error rate) of signals received at said second bit transfer rate, thereby optimizing optical performance of said link at said second bit transfer rate.