Light-Frames-pragmatic framework for optical packet transport: extending ethernet LANs to optical networks

• Published in: Journal of lightwave technology 2006-10, Vol.24 (10), p.3598-3615
• Main Authors: Gumaste, A., Si Qing Zheng
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Architecture; Bandwidth; Business and industry local networks; Ethernet networks; Exact sciences and technology; High speed; High speed optical techniques; IP over wavelength division multiplexing (WDM); light-trail; Local area networks; Network topology; Networks; Networks and services in france and abroad; Optical communication; Optical fiber communications; Optical fiber networks; Optical fibers; Optical packet switching; Optical telecommunications; Organization and planning of networks (techniques and equipments); Packets (communication); Physical layer; Switching and signalling; Switching theory; Systems, networks and services of telecommunications; Telecommunications; Telecommunications and information theory; Teleprocessing networks. Isdn; Topology; Transport; Wavelength division multiplexing
• ISSN: 0733-8724; 1558-2213
• DOI: 10.1109/JLT.2006.881843

In this paper, a network architecture for the realization of a pragmatic framework for optical packet transport called the light-frame (LF) framework is proposed. The architecture enables the transport of packets over optical media. While doing so, it relaxes the need for address recognition as well as high-speed switching, which are the two key hindering factors that have prevented contemporary optical packet transport solutions from being deployed. Using this framework, a tradeoff was achieved between cost (maturity in deployment) and performance (network efficiency). The idea is to create a logical topology that enables N 2 connectivity, yielding sublambda granularity, and thereby facilitating packet transport. Methods for topology discovery and conflict resolution are proposed. This paper also discusses stochastic as well as optimization analysis of the framework. The fiber resource requirements of this network solution are compared to a leading access networking solution-passive optical networks (PONs)-and cost benefits are shown. The LF concept due to its finely granular application, despite a present technological bottleneck, presents a good implementation case that allows it to be pushed for next-generation optical packet transport, especially in the access area