Patent ID: 6122095
Filing Date: 2000-09-19
Classification: G02B,H01S,H04J

Abstract:
An optical add/drop network element includingan input port for receiving a multi-wavelength optical signal having individual optical signals of different wavelengths,an output port for passing said multi-wavelength optical signal from the optical add/drop network element, andfirst, second, and third optical transmission paths, whereinsaid first optical transmission path is a drop path for carrying at least one of said individual optical signals dropped from said multi-wavelength optical signal, said drop path optically communicating with said input port,said second optical transmission path is an add path for carrying at least one optical signal of a particular wavelength to be added to said multi-wavelength optical signal, said add path optically communicating with said output port, andsaid third optical transmission path is a through path, coupled between said input port and said output port, for carrying said multi-wavelength signal,wherein a common portion is defined by portions of each of said add, drop and through paths such that said common portion is capable of being used for adding and dropping individual optical signals and for carrying said multi-wavelength signal,said common portion including a wavelength-selective apparatus with integrated amplification for use in the add/drop network element, the apparatus comprising:at least one wavelength selective element disposed in a wavelength-selective path between said input port and said output port;an optically amplifying rare earth-doped fiber section integrated with said wavelength-selective path, said optically amplifying rare earth-doped fiber section includinga first segment coupled between said input port and said at least one wavelength selective element, anda second segment coupled between said at least one wavelength selective element and said output port; anda source of pump light coupled to and operable to pump said optically amplifying rare earth-doped fiber section,wherein said at least one wavelength selective element is adapted to selectively reflect said at least one individual optical signal to be dropped from said multi-wavelength optical signal across said drop path via said first segment.