Power consumption comparison between point-to-point WDM and OTDM systems

Abstract

This talk will focus on the power consumption comparison between point-to-point wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) systems and optical time division multiplexing (OTDM) systems. By keeping the structure simple, the advantages and disadvantages of the WDM and OTDM techniques are highlighted from an energy efficiency point of view. Our analysis shows that in order to be comparable to WDM systems in power consumption aspect, the topology of the demultiplexing unit in OTDM systems must be carefully chosen and optimized and trade-offs have to be made between speed and power consumption using state-of-the-art switching technologies. The impacts of transmission impairments and novel technologies such as novel laser sources are still under consideration.