An optical pump unit may include a line voltage transistor, coupled between an input side and an output side of the optical pump unit. The optical pump may further include a DC-to-DC converter, having an input side coupled to the line voltage transistor; an optical pump assembly, coupled to an output side of the DC-to-DC converter; a current control assembly, coupled to the optical pump assembly; a throttle back control assembly, having an output coupled to the current control assembly, and a current/voltage sensor, to monitor a line current and voltage drop in the optical repeater, and being coupled to an input of the throttle back control assembly. As such, the throttle back control assembly may be configured to send a signal to the current control assembly to reduce a power at the optical pump assembly when a decrease in line current or voltage drop takes place.
A system for distributed acoustic sensing comprising. The system may include a distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) station to launch a DAS signal into a DAS fiber; and an enhanced sensing array, the enhanced sensing array comprising at least one sensing component. The at least one sensing component may include a DAS fiber coil, forming a portion of the DAS fiber, and a low elastic modulus outer shell, surrounding the DAS fiber coil.
G01H 9/00 - Measuring mechanical vibrations or ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves by using radiation-sensitive means, e.g. optical means
G01D 5/353 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells influencing the transmission properties of an optical fibre
3.
BI-DIRECTIONAL OPTICAL COMPONENTS FOR MULTI-CORE AMPLIFIED TRANSMISSION
A method and a system for transmission of optical signals. One or more first and second multi-core optical components are coupled to all fiber cores in a multi-core fiber. An erbium-doped fiber amplifier (EDFA) optical component is coupled to all fiber cores in the multi-core fiber and includes a plurality of EDFAs. Each fiber core is coupled to an EDFA. The EDFA optical component is coupled to all fiber cores between the first and second multi-core optical components. First multi-core components are coupled at an input to a first portion of fiber cores and provide first functions, and are coupled at an output from a second portion of fiber cores and provide second functions. Second multi-core components are coupled at an output from the first portion of fiber cores and provide second functions, and are coupled to an input to the second portion of fiber cores and provide first functions.
A system may include a first DAS station, comprising a first plurality of interrogator units to launch a first plurality of DAS signals in a first direction, wherein a first interrogator unit is configured to launch a first DAS signal at a first interrogation rate and first wavelength, wherein a second interrogator unit is configured to launch a second DAS signal at a second wavelength and second interrogation rate, less than the first interrogation rate. The system may include a loopback array, comprising a plurality of loopbacks, arranged over a plurality of spans, wherein a first set of proximate loopbacks nearest to the first DAS station are configured to route back the first DAS signal to the first DAS station, and wherein a first set of intermediate loopbacks, located further from the first DAS station, are configured to route back the second DAS signal to the first DAS station.
A method and a system for transmission of optical signals. One or more first and second multi-core optical components are coupled to all fiber cores in a multi-core fiber. An erbium-doped fiber amplifier (EDFA) optical component is coupled to all fiber cores in the multi-core fiber and includes a plurality of EDFAs. Each fiber core is coupled to an EDFA. The EDFA optical component is coupled to all fiber cores between the first and second multi-core optical components. First multi-core components are coupled at an input to a first portion of fiber cores and provide first functions, and are coupled at an output from a second portion of fiber cores and provide second functions. Second multi-core components are coupled at an output from the first portion of fiber cores and provide second functions, and are coupled to an input to the second portion of fiber cores and provide first functions.
Disclosed is a joint assembly for an optical cable. In some embodiments, the joint assembly may include a termination assembly adjacent to a joint, enclosed in a boot assembly, wherein the termination assembly electrically connects, or grounds, a first optical cable and a second optical cable. The termination assembly may include a heat shrink layer surrounding a core of the optical cable, wherein the core comprises a plurality of fibers surrounded by a plurality of strength members, and a first tape layer formed around the heat shrink layer. The termination assembly may further include a non-metallic gripping layer formed over the first tape layer, a second tape layer formed over the non-metallic gripping layer, and a non-metallic material formed over the second tape layer.
G02B 6/44 - Mechanical structures for providing tensile strength and external protection for fibres, e.g. optical transmission cables
G02B 6/50 - Underground or underwater installationInstallation through tubing, conduits or ducts
H02G 15/14 - Cable junctions protected by boxes, e.g. by distribution, connection or junction boxes for incorporating transformers, loading coils or amplifiers specially adapted for submarine cables
G02B 6/255 - Splicing of light guides, e.g. by fusion or bonding
7.
JACKETED UNDERSEA FIBER OPTIC TELECOMMUNICATIONS CABLE JOINT WITH NON-METALLIC STRENGTH MEMBER
Disclosed is a joint assembly for an optical cable. In some embodiments, the joint assembly may include a termination assembly adjacent to a joint, enclosed in a boot assembly, wherein the termination assembly electrically connects, or grounds, a first optical cable and a second optical cable. The termination assembly may include a heat shrink layer surrounding a core of the optical cable, wherein the core comprises a plurality of fibers surrounded by a plurality of strength members, and a first tape layer formed around the heat shrink layer. The termination assembly may further include a non-metallic gripping layer formed over the first tape layer, a second tape layer formed over the non-metallic gripping layer, and a non-metallic material formed over the second tape layer.
Disclosed is a cable with dual metal conductor structure. In some embodiments, an optical cable includes hollow buffer tube having a plurality of optical fibers therein, and a first plurality of layered strength members surrounding the hollow buffer tube. The optical cable may further include a conductor surrounding the first plurality of layered strength members, wherein the conductor includes a first metal layer surrounded by a second metal layer, and an outer insulating jacket surrounding the conductor.
A method and a system for monitoring an optical transmission path in an optical transmission system. A signal is transmitted on a portion of the optical transmission path. The optical transmission path includes a plurality of portions. A clock synchronization signal in a plurality of clock synchronization signals is assigned to the transmitted signal. A backscattered signal is received. The backscattered signal is generated by the portion of the optical transmission path in response to the signal being transmitted on the portion of the optical transmission path. Based on the assigned clock synchronization signal, the portion of the optical transmission path is monitored by analyzing the backscattered signal to determine a presence of an interference on the portion of the optical transmission path.
H04B 10/079 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using an in-service signal using measurements of the data signal
10.
MONITORING IN DISTRIBUTED ACOUSTIC SENSING SYSTEMS
A method and a system for monitoring an optical transmission path in an optical transmission system. A signal is transmitted on a portion of the optical transmission path. The optical transmission path includes a plurality of portions. A clock synchronization signal in a plurality of clock synchronization signals is assigned to the transmitted signal. A backscattered signal is received. The backscattered signal is generated by the portion of the optical transmission path in response to the signal being transmitted on the portion of the optical transmission path. Based on the assigned clock synchronization signal, the portion of the optical transmission path is monitored by analyzing the backscattered signal to determine a presence of an interference on the portion of the optical transmission path.
G01H 9/00 - Measuring mechanical vibrations or ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves by using radiation-sensitive means, e.g. optical means
G01D 5/353 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells influencing the transmission properties of an optical fibre
G01M 11/00 - Testing of optical apparatusTesting structures by optical methods not otherwise provided for
H04B 10/071 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using a reflected signal, e.g. using optical time domain reflectometers [OTDR]
G01V 1/22 - Transmitting seismic signals to recording or processing apparatus
11.
EXTENDING DAS RANGE IN UNDERSEA CABLES USING LOOPBACKS
Techniques for extending distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) range in undersea optical cables are provided. For example, DAS range can be extended by transmitting and amplifying a DAS signal along multiple spans of a first optical fiber, routing or bypassing the DAS signal from the first optical fiber to a second optical fiber different from the first fiber via a high-loss loopback architecture, and returning and amplifying the DAS signal along the same multiple spans back to a DAS device. The DAS device may then receive and process the DAS signal to detect any changes in the DAS environment. The loopback configuration may be based on different types of loopback architecture.
An apparatus for subsea environment sensing. In one aspect, the apparatus may include a repeater assembly, disposed in an optical repeater; and an environmental sensor assembly, disposed proximate to the repeater assembly, the environmental sensor assembly being coupled to receive power from the repeater assembly over an optical link.
G01K 1/024 - Means for indicating or recording specially adapted for thermometers for remote indication
G01K 1/14 - SupportsFastening devicesArrangements for mounting thermometers in particular locations
H04B 10/80 - Optical aspects relating to the use of optical transmission for specific applications, not provided for in groups , e.g. optical power feeding or optical transmission through water
13.
GAIN EQUALIZATION IN C+L ERBIUM-DOPED FIBER AMPLIFIERS
Techniques for improving gain equalization in C- and L-band (“C+L”) erbium-doped fiber amplifier (EDFAs) are provided. For example, the C- and L-band amplification sections of a C+L EDFA may be separated and configured in a parallel arrangement or a serial arrangement. For both the parallel and serial arrangements, the C- and L-band amplification sections may share a common gain flattening filter (GFF) or each amplification section may include and employ a separate GFF. Moreover, in some examples, an “interstage” L-band GFF may be located before or upstream of the L-band amplification section such that the L-band optical signal is gain-equalized or flattened prior to the L-band amplification section amplifying the L-band.
H01S 3/00 - Lasers, i.e. devices using stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation in the infrared, visible or ultraviolet wave range
H01S 3/0941 - Processes or apparatus for excitation, e.g. pumping using optical pumping by coherent light of a semiconductor laser, e.g. of a laser diode
H01S 3/10 - Controlling the intensity, frequency, phase, polarisation or direction of the emitted radiation, e.g. switching, gating, modulating or demodulating
An apparatus for subsea environment sensing. In one aspect, the apparatus may include a repeater assembly, disposed in an optical repeater; and an environmental sensor assembly, disposed proximate to the repeater assembly, the environmental sensor assembly being coupled to receive power from the repeater assembly over an optical link.
H04B 10/077 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using an in-service signal using a supervisory or additional signal
H02G 9/02 - Installations of electric cables or lines in or on the ground or water laid directly in or on the ground, river-bed or sea-bottomCoverings therefor, e.g. tile
15.
Enhanced line monitoring and parameter reporting for high fiber count undersea fiber optic transmission systems with multiple switchable branches
Provided are techniques, devices and systems that enable updating of a reportable parameter table database when a reconfigured optical communication path is formed by switching performed by a branching unit in an undersea optical communication transmission system. A processor may obtain system attributes of each respective segment of a number of segments of the reconfigured optical communication path from a first end point to a second endpoint. The system attributes of each respective segment of the number of segments may be evaluated from the first end point to the second endpoint of the reconfigured optical communication path. A reportable parameter table may be generated based on the evaluated system attributes that includes a listing of operational and structural parameters of system from the first endpoint to the second endpoint of the reconfigured optical communication path.
H04Q 11/00 - Selecting arrangements for multiplex systems
H04B 10/038 - Arrangements for fault recovery using bypasses
H04B 10/079 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using an in-service signal using measurements of the data signal
H04L 41/069 - Management of faults, events, alarms or notifications using logs of notificationsPost-processing of notifications
H04L 41/12 - Discovery or management of network topologies
An undersea fiber optic cable routing architecture including a branching unit coupled to three trunk cables capable of switching individual fibers in each fiber pair within a cable to either of the other two cables. The branching unit comprises a plurality of optical switches and a controller for receiving remote command signals and configuring the optical switches in accordance with the remote command signals.
An undersea fiber optic cable architecture including a beach manhole (BMH) installed at a terrestrial site, a terrestrial station connected to the BMH by a terrestrial fiber optic cable, a first landing cable extending from the BMH into territorial waters adjacent the terrestrial site and connected to a first enhanced branching unit (EBU) located in the territorial waters, a second landing cable extending from the BMH into the territorial waters and connected to a second EBU located in the territorial waters, a recovery path cable connecting the first EBU to the second EBU, a first trunk cable extending from the first EBU into international waters, and a second trunk cable extending from the second EBU into the international waters.
H02G 15/14 - Cable junctions protected by boxes, e.g. by distribution, connection or junction boxes for incorporating transformers, loading coils or amplifiers specially adapted for submarine cables
G02B 6/44 - Mechanical structures for providing tensile strength and external protection for fibres, e.g. optical transmission cables
G02B 6/50 - Underground or underwater installationInstallation through tubing, conduits or ducts
H01R 4/66 - Connections with the terrestrial mass, e.g. earth plate, earth pin
H02G 1/10 - Methods or apparatus specially adapted for installing, maintaining, repairing, or dismantling electric cables or lines for laying cables, e.g. laying apparatus on vehicle in or under water
18.
MULTISPAN OPTICAL FIBER SYSTEM AND TECHNIQUES FOR IMPROVED DISTRIBUTED ACOUSTIC SENSING
A distributed acoustic sensing system. The DAS system may include a distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) station, comprising: a DAS transmitter, arranged to launch an outbound DAS signal through an optical fiber, over at least one span; a DAS receiver, arranged to receive a backscatter Rayleigh signal, based upon the DAS signal; and at least one component, coupled to the DAS transmitter, the DAS receiver, or both, and arranged to increase a sensitivity for sensing of the DAS system.
G01H 9/00 - Measuring mechanical vibrations or ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves by using radiation-sensitive means, e.g. optical means
G01D 5/353 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells influencing the transmission properties of an optical fibre
19.
Semiconductor based system and method for broad bandwidth transmission
Disclosed are techniques and amplifier stages that include wave division multiplexers, semiconductor optical amplifiers and wave division demultiplexers that amplify optical signals. An input optical signal having a first bandwidth is partitioned into a plurality of subband optical signals by thin film filters tuned to a selected bandwidth that is less than the first bandwidth. Each of the plurality of subband optical signals has a bandwidth that is a portion of the first bandwidth. Each subband optical signal is input into a semiconductor optical amplifier that is tuned to the respective portion of the first bandwidth that corresponds to the subband optical signal. The combination of the partitioned input optical signal and tuned semiconductor optical amplifiers provides improved optical signal transmission performance by reducing polarization dependent gain.
H04B 10/00 - Transmission systems employing electromagnetic waves other than radio-waves, e.g. infrared, visible or ultraviolet light, or employing corpuscular radiation, e.g. quantum communication
H04B 10/291 - Repeaters in which processing or amplification is carried out without conversion of the main signal from optical form
H04J 14/02 - Wavelength-division multiplex systems
A sensing system may include a distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) station to launch a DAS signal as an outbound DAS signal, as well as a plurality of DAS loopback assemblies, arranged along a plurality of spans. The plurality of DAS loopback assemblies may be arranged to separately process the outbound DAS signal, and return to the DAS station, the outbound DAS signal, as a return DAS signal that comprises a backscattered Rayleigh signal. As such, a given DAS loopback assembly of the plurality of DAS loopback assemblies may include an Erbium-Doped Fiber Amplifier (EDFA) that is arranged to compensate the loss from Rayleigh scattering of the DAS signal, and a filter device having an optical filtering function that is arranged to selectively send back just a sensing wavelength of the DAS signal.
A system may include a distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) station, comprising a DAS transmitter to launch an outbound DAS signal in a first direction, over at least one span of an optical communications link. The system may further include a DAS receiver to receive a backscattered Rayleigh signal, based upon the outbound DAS signal, wherein the DAS signal is transmitted at least in part over a D− fiber.
Disclosed herein are undersea optical cable connection assemblies and systems. In some embodiments, a retainer is operable to arrange a plurality of SCFs and a plurality of microsplints, the retainer including a main body having a first section and a second section. The retainer may further include a first channel and a second channel extending through the first section, wherein a first set of SCFs extend through the first channel, and wherein a second set of SCFs extend through the second channel. The retainer may further include a third channel and a fourth channel extending through the first section, wherein a first set of microsplints extends through the third channel, and wherein a second set of microsplints extends through the fourth channel. A third set of microsplints extends through the third channel, wherein the first and third sets of microsplints are separated from one another by a padding layer.
Provided are techniques, devices and systems that enable updating of a reportable parameter table database when a reconfigured optical communication path is formed by switching performed by a branching unit in an undersea optical communication transmission system. A processor may obtain system attributes of each respective segment of a number of segments of the reconfigured optical communication path from a first end point to a second endpoint. The system attributes of each respective segment of the number of segments may be evaluated from the first end point to the second endpoint of the reconfigured optical communication path. A reportable parameter table may be generated based on the evaluated system attributes that includes a listing of operational and structural parameters of system from the first endpoint to the second endpoint of the reconfigured optical communication path.
H04B 10/07 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems
H04Q 11/00 - Selecting arrangements for multiplex systems
H04B 10/038 - Arrangements for fault recovery using bypasses
H04B 10/079 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using an in-service signal using measurements of the data signal
H04L 41/069 - Management of faults, events, alarms or notifications using logs of notificationsPost-processing of notifications
H04L 41/12 - Discovery or management of network topologies
24.
ENHANCED LINE MONITORING AND PARAMETER REPORTING FOR HIGH FIBER COUNT UNDERSEA FIBER OPTIC TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS WITH MULTIPLE SWITCHABLE BRANCHES
Provided are techniques, devices and systems that enable updating of a reportable parameter table database when a reconfigured optical communication path is formed by switching performed by a branching unit in an undersea optical communication transmission system. A processor may obtain system attributes of each respective segment of a number of segments of the reconfigured optical communication path from a first end point to a second endpoint. The system attributes of each respective segment of the number of segments may be evaluated from the first end point to the second endpoint of the reconfigured optical communication path. A reportable parameter table may be generated based on the evaluated system attributes that includes a listing of operational and structural parameters of system from the first endpoint to the second endpoint of the reconfigured optical communication path.
25.
Spatially resolved monitoring of cable perturbations using multichannel information
A monitoring system. The monitoring system may include an optical receiver configured to receive an optical signal, the receiver comprising a plurality of equalizers to partition the optical signal over a plurality of optical channels corresponding to a plurality of optical wavelengths. The monitoring system may also include an analysis component, coupled to the receiver, comprising logic, where the logic is configured to construct a plurality of sensor matrices, corresponding to the plurality of optical channels, based upon the optical signal, after reception at the receiver; determine, using the plurality of sensor matrices, a correlation between at least one pair of sensor matrices corresponding to at least one pair of optical channels of the plurality of optical channels; and determine a location of a perturbation, external to the transmission system, based upon the correlation.
H04B 10/079 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using an in-service signal using measurements of the data signal
Methods of measuring an anomaly, any induced change in physical parameters such as strain, temperature, and so forth, in an optical fiber. One method may include launching a plurality of probe pulses from a probe source; recording a Brillouin scattering spectrum from a plurality of reflection signals generated in the optical fiber, responsive to the plurality of probe pulses; determining a relative motion between the optical fiber and the anomaly during the recording the Brillouin back-scattering spectrum; and dynamically adjusting the Brillouin back-scattering spectrum according to the relative motion, or performing an adjustment of the Brillouin back-scattering spectrum after acquisition of the Brillouin back-scattering spectrum.
G01D 5/353 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells influencing the transmission properties of an optical fibre
G01K 11/322 - Measuring temperature based on physical or chemical changes not covered by group , , , or using changes in transmittance, scattering or luminescence in optical fibres using Brillouin scattering
G01L 1/24 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations of optical properties of material when it is stressed, e.g. by photoelastic stress analysis
G01M 11/00 - Testing of optical apparatusTesting structures by optical methods not otherwise provided for
Provided are optical communication signal recovery techniques and a submarine optical communication recovery device may include a number of inputs, a number of outputs and a number of optical switch modules. Each input may be operable to connect to a respective optical fiber of a submarine fiber optic cable, and a number of the optical fibers carry optical signals and at least one optical fiber of the plurality of optical fibers is an unusable optical path that is unable to carry a usable optical signal. Each output may couple to another respective optical fiber, and a number of the outputs may be designated as impaired outputs. Each optical switch module of the number of optical switch modules may be operable to connect an input of the number of inputs coupled to the unusable optical path to an impaired output of the number of the impaired outputs.
A monitoring system. The monitoring system may include an optical receiver configured to receive an optical signal, the receiver comprising a plurality of equalizers to partition the optical signal over a plurality of optical channels corresponding to a plurality of optical wavelengths. The monitoring system may also include an analysis component, coupled to the receiver, comprising logic, where the logic is configured to construct a plurality of sensor matrices, corresponding to the plurality of optical channels, based upon the optical signal, after reception at the receiver; determine, using the plurality of sensor matrices, a correlation between at least one pair of sensor matrices corresponding to at least one pair of optical channels of the plurality of optical channels; and determine a location of a perturbation, external to the transmission system, based upon the correlation.
H04B 10/079 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using an in-service signal using measurements of the data signal
A monitoring system. The monitoring system may include an optical receiver configured to receive an optical signal, the receiver comprising a plurality of equalizers to partition the optical signal over a plurality of optical channels corresponding to a plurality of optical wavelengths. The monitoring system may also include an analysis component, coupled to the receiver, comprising logic, where the logic is configured to construct a plurality of sensor matrices, corresponding to the plurality of optical channels, based upon the optical signal, after reception at the receiver; determine, using the plurality of sensor matrices, a correlation between at least one pair of sensor matrices corresponding to at least one pair of optical channels of the plurality of optical channels; and determine a location of a perturbation, external to the transmission system, based upon the correlation.
This application describes techniques for testing fiber optic telecommunication systems, such as undersea fiber optic cable systems. Testing terminals may be deployed at a location of terminating equipment for a fiber optic cable. The testing terminals may be operated remotely. The testing terminals may be configured to programmatically test the cable by loading one or more tests and automatically configure the cable's transmitters and receivers based on predetermined loading schemes selected based on the tests to be performed. The testing terminals may iterate over channels and fiber pairs of the cable and may use back-to-back tests to remove artifacts from test results. Using the described techniques, a cable's channels and fiber pairs can be fully characterized in the amount of time afforded for a typical testing schedule, which was not generally possible using conventional testing.
H04B 10/07 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems
H04B 10/075 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using an in-service signal
H04B 10/077 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using an in-service signal using a supervisory or additional signal
H04Q 11/00 - Selecting arrangements for multiplex systems
31.
METHODS, MEDIUMS, AND SYSTEMS FOR TESTING FIBER OPTIC TELECOMMUNICATION SYSTEMS
This application describes techniques for testing fiber optic telecommunication systems, such as undersea fiber optic cable systems. Testing terminals may be deployed at a location of terminating equipment for a fiber optic cable. The testing terminals may be operated remotely. The testing terminals may be configured to programmatically test the cable by loading one or more tests and automatically configure the cable's transmitters and receivers based on predetermined loading schemes selected based on the tests to be performed. The testing terminals may iterate over channels and fiber pairs of the cable and may use back-to-back tests to remove artifacts from test results. Using the described techniques, a cable's channels and fiber pairs can be fully characterized in the amount of time afforded for a typical testing schedule, which was not generally possible using conventional testing.
Disclosed are techniques and amplifier stages that include wave division multiplexers, semiconductor optical amplifiers and wave division demultiplexers that amplify optical signals. An input optical signal having a first bandwidth is partitioned into a plurality of subband optical signals by thin film filters tuned to a selected bandwidth that is less than the first bandwidth. Each of the plurality of subband optical signals has a bandwidth that is a portion of the first bandwidth. Each subband optical signal is input into a semiconductor optical amplifier that is tuned to the respective portion of the first bandwidth that corresponds to the subband optical signal. The combination of the partitioned input optical signal and tuned semiconductor optical amplifiers provides improved optical signal transmission performance by reducing polarization dependent gain.
H04B 10/00 - Transmission systems employing electromagnetic waves other than radio-waves, e.g. infrared, visible or ultraviolet light, or employing corpuscular radiation, e.g. quantum communication
An undersea fiber optic cable routing architecture including a branching unit coupled to three trunk cables capable of switching individual fibers in each fiber pair within a cable to either of the other two cables. The branching unit comprises a plurality of optical switches and a controller for receiving remote command signals and configuring the optical switches in accordance with the remote command signals.
Provided is a cable and joint inspection system, process and computer readable medium enabling cable and joint inspection functions. The system includes an x-ray cabinet containing an x-ray camera and positioning equipment. The x-ray camera is positionable to obtain an x-ray image of a portion of a cable or a cable joint. The x-ray images are evaluated to determine whether a bounded area is within the x-ray image. The processor may measure the size of the bounded area in the x-ray image based on a number of pixels forming the bounded area. In response to the size of the bounded area being greater than an inclusion or void allowance threshold, the processor may flag the bounded area as an inclusion or void and flag pixel locations in the x-ray image. The flagged pixel locations correspond to a physical location within the portions of the cable or the cable joint.
Disclosed are a system and techniques to determine a color of an optical fiber in a fiber optic cable. A spectrophotometer camera may obtain a color value of the optical fiber. A fiber adaptor is operable to hold a single optical fiber of a fiber optic cable in a field of view of the spectrophotometer camera. A memory storing instructions that, when executed by a processor, enable identifying a color of the optical fiber. The color value may be compared to a color value of a number of reference colors. A color match score value may be generated for the color value with respect to each reference color. A confidence value may be obtained for a pair of color match scores that are closest in score value. Based on the confidence value, one of the reference colors is identified as a color of the optical fiber.
Apparatus, systems, and techniques for extending distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) range in undersea optical cables over multiple spans, as well as providing span-specific DAS information, are provided.
G01H 9/00 - Measuring mechanical vibrations or ultrasonic, sonic or infrasonic waves by using radiation-sensitive means, e.g. optical means
G01D 5/353 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells influencing the transmission properties of an optical fibre
37.
Spatially resolved perturbation detection using line monitoring system
A line monitoring system may include a laser source to launch a plurality of pulsed probe signals; an optical transmission system, comprising a plurality of loopbacks, to receive the plurality of pulsed probe signals, and direct the plurality of pulsed probe signals through the plurality of loopbacks. The system may include a receiver to receive a plurality of return signals, derived from the plurality of pulsed probe signals from the transmission system, and a perturbance detection system, coupled to the receiver, to measure a phase difference between a polarization of a pair of return signals of the plurality of return signals. The pair of return signals may be received from a pair of loopbacks of the plurality of loopbacks, from a first loopback and a second return signal from a second loopback. The perturbance detection system may determine a location of a perturbation, based upon the phase difference.
G01S 17/26 - Systems determining position data of a target for measuring distance only using transmission of interrupted, pulse-modulated waves wherein the transmitted pulses use a frequency-modulated or phase-modulated carrier wave, e.g. for pulse compression of received signals
G01S 17/34 - Systems determining position data of a target for measuring distance only using transmission of continuous waves, whether amplitude-, frequency-, or phase-modulated, or unmodulated using transmission of continuous, frequency-modulated waves while heterodyning the received signal, or a signal derived therefrom, with a locally-generated signal related to the contemporaneously transmitted signal
G01S 17/36 - Systems determining position data of a target for measuring distance only using transmission of continuous waves, whether amplitude-, frequency-, or phase-modulated, or unmodulated with phase comparison between the received signal and the contemporaneously transmitted signal
38.
Techniques to generate network simulation scenarios
Techniques to generate network simulation scenarios are described. In one embodiment, an apparatus may comprise a records component operative to receive an example network configuration record; receive an example network operation record; a machine learning management component operative to generate a network operation model using a machine learning component based on the example network configuration record as an example input and the example network operation record as an example output; and a system-test component operative to receive a system-test network configuration record; and generate a system-test network operation record based on the system-test network configuration record using the network operation model. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
H04B 10/25 - Arrangements specific to fibre transmission
H04B 10/80 - Optical aspects relating to the use of optical transmission for specific applications, not provided for in groups , e.g. optical power feeding or optical transmission through water
H04L 41/08 - Configuration management of networks or network elements
H04L 41/12 - Discovery or management of network topologies
H04L 41/16 - Arrangements for maintenance, administration or management of data switching networks, e.g. of packet switching networks using machine learning or artificial intelligence
H04J 14/02 - Wavelength-division multiplex systems
H04L 41/06 - Management of faults, events, alarms or notifications
Disclosed are approaches for forming a semiconductor device. In some embodiments, a method may include providing a patterned hardmask over a substrate, and providing, from an ion source, a plasma treatment to a first section of the patterned hardmask, wherein a second section of the patterned hardmask does not receive the plasma treatment. The method may further include etching the substrate to form a plurality of fins in the substrate, wherein the first section of the patterned hardmask is etched faster than the second section of the patterned hardmask.
An apparatus for managing optical subsea communications system may include a plurality of fiber interface modules (FIM), wherein a given FIM comprises a receive part, and a transmit part. The transmit part may include two normally closed switches, wherein a first switch of the two normally closed switches is coupled to a line monitoring equipment (LME) TX port, and wherein a second switch of the two normally closed switches is coupled to a line terminating equipment (LTE) TX port.
H04B 10/80 - Optical aspects relating to the use of optical transmission for specific applications, not provided for in groups , e.g. optical power feeding or optical transmission through water
An apparatus for managing optical subsea communications system may include a plurality of fiber interface modules (FIM), wherein a given FIM comprises a receive part, and a transmit part. The transmit part may include two nomially closed switches, wherein a first switch of the two normally closed switches is coupled to a line monitoring equipment (LME) TX port, and wherein a second switch of the two normally closed switches is coupled to a line terminating equipment (LTE) TX port.
Techniques for extending distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) range in undersea optical cables are provided. For example, DAS range can be extended by transmitting and amplifying a DAS signal along multiple spans of a first optical fiber, routing or bypassing the DAS signal from the first optical fiber to a second optical fiber different from the first fiber via a high-loss loopback architecture, and returning and amplifying the DAS signal along the same multiple spans back to a DAS device. The DAS device may then receive and process the DAS signal to detect any changes in the DAS environment. The loopback configuration may be based on different types of loopback architecture.
Techniques for managing gain equalization error in optical communication systems are provided. For example, a multi-stage gain correction filter may be configured to at least correct gain equalization error produced by filters with insufficient resolution, for example, conventional non-reflective gain correction technology used in the optical communication systems. The multi-stage filter may include at least a broadband gain correction filter to correct gain equalization error in most of the transmission bandwidth and a narrow band gain correction filter to correction error in a narrow region of the bandwidth. One or more of the multi-stage filters may be implemented in the repeaters of the system (which may be referred to as hybrid GFFs) or may be included in a standalone body (which may be referred to as hybrid GEFs).
Techniques for managing gain equalization error in optical communication systems are provided. For example, a multi-stage gain correction filter may be configured to at least correct gain equalization error produced by filters with insufficient resolution, for example, conventional non-reflective gain correction technology used in the optical communication systems. The multi-stage filter may include at least a broadband gain correction filter to correct gain equalization error in most of the transmission bandwidth and a narrow band gain correction filter to correction error in a narrow region of the bandwidth. One or more of the multi-stage filters may be implemented in the repeaters of the system (which may be referred to as hybrid GFFs) or may be included in a standalone body (which may be referred to as hybrid GEFs).
Techniques for interfacing between web services and interface description language (IDL)-based remote procedure call (RPC) services and an optical communication system implementing same
An embodiment of the present disclosure includes an RPC architecture that includes a central manager gateway with a client-facing side that allows for client access via web services protocols such as SOAP and REST. The central manager gateway further includes a server-facing side that can communicate with a plurality of network elements, with each network element implementing a common IDL architecture and RPC manager instance. Each of the network elements, and in particular their RPC manager instance, may communicate with other RPC manager instances to ‘learn’ the network topology for the system and maintain a topology database for purposes of exposing a naming service, e.g., a CORBA naming service. The network elements may elect one master element while the others remain as slaves. The central manager gateway may automatically locate the master network element and forward client requests to the same for servicing.
H04L 41/0273 - Exchanging or transporting network management information using the InternetEmbedding network management web servers in network elementsWeb-services-based protocols using web services for network management, e.g. simple object access protocol [SOAP]
H04L 41/0233 - Object-oriented techniques, for representation of network management data, e.g. common object request broker architecture [CORBA]
H04L 41/00 - Arrangements for maintenance, administration or management of data switching networks, e.g. of packet switching networks
A system and method for efficient optical signal amplification with system monitoring features are provided. For example, an optical repeater may include two different 4-port thin-film gain flattening filters (TF-GFFs), which may be connected to provide a high-loss loop-back (HLLB) path in the optical repeater for system monitoring. The 4-port TF-GFF may have four different ports and may integrate the functionalities of a conventional GFF and a coupler into a single component, thereby increasing power efficiency of the optical repeater.
H04B 10/00 - Transmission systems employing electromagnetic waves other than radio-waves, e.g. infrared, visible or ultraviolet light, or employing corpuscular radiation, e.g. quantum communication
H04B 10/291 - Repeaters in which processing or amplification is carried out without conversion of the main signal from optical form
H04J 14/02 - Wavelength-division multiplex systems
H04B 10/294 - Signal power control in a multiwavelength system, e.g. gain equalisation
Disclosed are a system and a method for configuring an optical transmission system. A process may include arranging a first ruggedized repeater on or in a first object or structure. A second ruggedized repeater may be arranged on or in a second object or structure different from the first object or structure. A third ruggedized repeater may be arranged on or in a third object or structure different from the first and second objects or structures, wherein: (i) a first distance between the first ruggedized repeater and the second ruggedized repeater and (ii) a second distance between the second ruggedized repeater and the third ruggedized repeater are equal or nearly equal and based on signal loss.
A line monitoring system may include a laser source to launch a probe signal over a first bandwidth, a polarization maintaining tap to receive and split the probe signal, into a first portion and a second portion, a polarization rotator to receive the first portion and send the first portion to a transmission system, a return tap to receive the second portion and to receive a return signal from the transmission system, wherein the return signal being derived from the first portion, a photodetector coupled to receive an interference signal from the return tap, wherein the interference signal is generated by a mixing the return signal and the second portion, where the photodetector is arranged to output a power signal based upon the interference signal, and a power measurement system to measure the power signal at a given measurement frequency over a second bandwidth, comparable to the first bandwidth.
G01M 11/00 - Testing of optical apparatusTesting structures by optical methods not otherwise provided for
H04B 10/077 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using an in-service signal using a supervisory or additional signal
H04B 10/079 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using an in-service signal using measurements of the data signal
49.
TERRESTRIAL REPEATER AND OPTIMIZED REPEATER SPACING
Disclosed are a system and a method for configuring an optical transmission system. A process may include arranging a first ruggedized repeater on or in a first object or structure. A second ruggedized repeater may be arranged on or in a second object or structure different from the first object or structure. A third ruggedized repeater may be arranged on or in a third object or structure different from the first and second objects or structures, wherein: (i) a first distance between the first ruggedized repeater and the second ruggedized repeater and (ii) a second distance between the second ruggedized repeater and the third ruggedized repeater are equal or nearly equal and based on signal loss.
Methods of measuring an anomaly, any induced change in physical parameters such as strain, temperature, and so forth, in an optical fiber. One method may include launching a plurality of probe pulses from a probe source; recording a Brillouin scattering spectrum from a plurality of reflection signals generated in the optical fiber, responsive to the plurality of probe pulses; determining a relative motion between the optical fiber and the anomaly during the recording the Brillouin back-scattering spectrum; and dynamically adjusting the Brillouin back-scattering spectrum according to the relative motion, or performing an adjustment of the Brillouin back-scattering spectrum after acquisition of the Brillouin back-scattering spectrum.
G01D 5/353 - Mechanical means for transferring the output of a sensing memberMeans for converting the output of a sensing member to another variable where the form or nature of the sensing member does not constrain the means for convertingTransducers not specially adapted for a specific variable using optical means, i.e. using infrared, visible or ultraviolet light with attenuation or whole or partial obturation of beams of light the beams of light being detected by photocells influencing the transmission properties of an optical fibre
G01L 1/24 - Measuring force or stress, in general by measuring variations of optical properties of material when it is stressed, e.g. by photoelastic stress analysis
G01K 11/322 - Measuring temperature based on physical or chemical changes not covered by group , , , or using changes in transmittance, scattering or luminescence in optical fibres using Brillouin scattering
G01M 11/00 - Testing of optical apparatusTesting structures by optical methods not otherwise provided for
51.
Efficient undersea charging of undersea autonomous vehicles
A docking/charging module for an undersea autonomous vehicle comprises a housing allowing the undersea autonomous vehicle to dock, thereby establishing both a data connection and a power connection between the module and the vehicle, the module being equipped with the battery which is charged from an undersea cable having a power conductor which may charge the undersea autonomous vehicle via the power connection when the undersea autonomous vehicle is docked with or in proximity to the docking/charging module.
B60L 53/126 - Methods for pairing a vehicle and a charging station, e.g. establishing a one-to-one relation between a wireless power transmitter and a wireless power receiver
B60L 53/18 - Cables specially adapted for charging electric vehicles
B60L 53/30 - Constructional details of charging stations
B60L 53/66 - Data transfer between charging stations and vehicles
52.
Optical switching and electrical powering architecture for undersea mesh networking
Disclosed is an undersea power routing device including a first coupling port, a high voltage converter a second coupling port. The first coupling port may be configured to be coupled to an electrical power conductor and fiber optical cables of an undersea branch cable. The high voltage converter may be coupled to the first coupling port and operable to connect to the electrical power conductor via the first coupling port. The high voltage converter may be further operable to convert a high voltage electrical power supplied by the electrical power conductor to an output voltage having a lower voltage electrical power than the high voltage electrical power. The second coupling port may be configured to couple the high voltage converter to an interconnect cable. The high voltage converter, when coupled to the interconnect cable, may be operable to distribute the lower voltage electrical power to the interconnect cable.
H04B 10/00 - Transmission systems employing electromagnetic waves other than radio-waves, e.g. infrared, visible or ultraviolet light, or employing corpuscular radiation, e.g. quantum communication
H04B 10/80 - Optical aspects relating to the use of optical transmission for specific applications, not provided for in groups , e.g. optical power feeding or optical transmission through water
H04Q 11/00 - Selecting arrangements for multiplex systems
53.
Gain equalization in C+L erbium-doped fiber amplifiers
Techniques for improving gain equalization in C- and L-band (“C+L”) erbium-doped fiber amplifier (EDFAs) are provided. For example, the C- and L-band amplification sections of a C+L EDFA may be separated and configured in a parallel arrangement or a serial arrangement. For both the parallel and serial arrangements, the C- and L-band amplification sections may share a common gain flattening filter (GFF) or each amplification section may include and employ a separate GFF. Moreover, in some examples, an “interstage” L-band GFF may be located before or upstream of the L-band amplification section such that the L-band optical signal is gain-equalized or flattened prior to the L-band amplification section amplifying the L-band.
H01S 3/00 - Lasers, i.e. devices using stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation in the infrared, visible or ultraviolet wave range
H01S 3/0941 - Processes or apparatus for excitation, e.g. pumping using optical pumping by coherent light of a semiconductor laser, e.g. of a laser diode
H01S 3/10 - Controlling the intensity, frequency, phase, polarisation or direction of the emitted radiation, e.g. switching, gating, modulating or demodulating
An improved deepwater optical fiber cable with abrasion protection and techniques for manufacturing the same are provided. For example, the abrasion protected deepwater cable may be a modification or enhancement of an existing special application (SPA) optical fiber cable. One or more additional layers of metallic tape and jackets may be added to the outermost layer of the SPA cable. The tape and jacket layers may have different thicknesses and may be made from different materials to optimize protection against man-made objects or otherwise naturally occurring materials in deep water environments, such as fish aggregation devices (FADs).
Submarine cable branching units with fiber pair switching configured to allow any number of trunk cable fiber pairs to access the optical spectrum any number of branch cable fiber pairs. Access to a particular branch terminal is not limited to predefined subset of the trunk fiber pairs. This approach allows fewer branch cable fiber pairs to be equipped in each branching unit, reducing system cost, simplifies system planning and provides flexible routing of overall trunk cable capacity.
G02B 6/44 - Mechanical structures for providing tensile strength and external protection for fibres, e.g. optical transmission cables
H04J 14/02 - Wavelength-division multiplex systems
H04B 3/44 - Arrangements for feeding power to a repeater along the transmission line
H04B 10/80 - Optical aspects relating to the use of optical transmission for specific applications, not provided for in groups , e.g. optical power feeding or optical transmission through water
56.
Pair routing between three undersea fiber optic cables
An undersea fiber optic cable routing architecture including a branching unit coupled to three trunk cables capable of switching individual fibers in each fiber pair within a cable to either of the other two cables. The branching unit comprises a plurality of optical switches and a controller for receiving remote command signals and configuring the optical switches in accordance with the remote command signals.
An undersea fiber optic cable architecture including a beach manhole (BMH) installed at a terrestrial site, a terrestrial station connected to the BMH by a terrestrial fiber optic cable, a first landing cable extending from the BMH into territorial waters adjacent the terrestrial site and connected to a first enhanced branching unit (EBU) located in the territorial waters, a second landing cable extending from the BMH into the territorial waters and connected to a second EBU located in the territorial waters, a recovery path cable connecting the first EBU to the second EBU, a first trunk cable extending from the first EBU into international waters, and a second trunk cable extending from the second EBU into the international waters.
H02G 15/14 - Cable junctions protected by boxes, e.g. by distribution, connection or junction boxes for incorporating transformers, loading coils or amplifiers specially adapted for submarine cables
G02B 6/44 - Mechanical structures for providing tensile strength and external protection for fibres, e.g. optical transmission cables
G02B 6/50 - Underground or underwater installationInstallation through tubing, conduits or ducts
H01R 4/66 - Connections with the terrestrial mass, e.g. earth plate, earth pin
H02G 1/10 - Methods or apparatus specially adapted for installing, maintaining, repairing, or dismantling electric cables or lines for laying cables, e.g. laying apparatus on vehicle in or under water
58.
Redundancy improvement in semiconductor-based optical communication systems
Techniques for improving redundancy in semiconductor-based optical communication systems are provided. For example, two or more semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs) may be provided in an optical repeater, and each SOA may form a respective amplification path. When failure occurs on a first SOA, a second SOA that is different from the first SOA can be selected. In one example, the selection may be based on wavelength division multiplexing (WDM), and in another example, the selection may be based on optical switching. The two or more SOAs (and other optical components) may be integrated in the same substrate package.
A novel branching unit provided. The branching unit may include a first port for connecting a first power conductor disposed in a first optical cable, a second port for connecting a second power conductor disposed in a second optical cable, and a third port for connecting a third power conductor and a fourth power conductor disposed in a branch cable. The third port may include a first sub-port and a second sub-port. The first sub-port may be configured to connect the third power conductor of the branch cable. The second sub-port may be configured to connect the fourth power conductor of the branch cable.
H02G 9/02 - Installations of electric cables or lines in or on the ground or water laid directly in or on the ground, river-bed or sea-bottomCoverings therefor, e.g. tile
Techniques to generate network simulation scenarios are described. In one embodiment, an apparatus may comprise a records component operative to receive an example network configuration record; receive an example network operation record; a machine learning management component operative to generate a network operation model using a machine learning component based on the example network configuration record as an example input and the example network operation record as an example output; and a system-test component operative to receive a system-test network configuration record; and generate a system-test network operation record based on the system-test network configuration record using the network operation model. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
H04B 10/25 - Arrangements specific to fibre transmission
H04B 10/80 - Optical aspects relating to the use of optical transmission for specific applications, not provided for in groups , e.g. optical power feeding or optical transmission through water
H04L 41/08 - Configuration management of networks or network elements
H04L 41/12 - Discovery or management of network topologies
H04L 41/16 - Arrangements for maintenance, administration or management of data switching networks, e.g. of packet switching networks using machine learning or artificial intelligence
H04J 14/02 - Wavelength-division multiplex systems
H04L 41/06 - Management of faults, events, alarms or notifications
61.
System and apparatus for detecting and locating external aggression on an undersea cable
A novel system and apparatus for detecting and locating an external aggression on at least one optical cable of an optical communication system is provided. For example, a signal from a transmitter may be received and analysis may be performed to recover a state-of-polarization (SOP) associated with the signal. A first rapid polarization change that occurs may be identified, which may indicate that an external aggression has occurred on the at least one optical cable. A time offset between the first rapid polarization change and a second rapid polarization change may be used to estimate a location of the external aggression.
A novel branching unit provided. The branching unit may include a first port for connecting a first power conductor disposed in a first optical cable, a second port for connecting a second power conductor disposed in a second optical cable, and a third port for connecting a third power conductor and a fourth power conductor disposed in a branch cable. The third port may include a first sub-port and a second sub-port. The first sub-port may be configured to connect the third power conductor of the branch cable. The second sub-port may be configured to connect the fourth power conductor of the branch cable.
H02G 9/02 - Installations of electric cables or lines in or on the ground or water laid directly in or on the ground, river-bed or sea-bottomCoverings therefor, e.g. tile
Techniques for interfacing between web services and interface description language (IDL)-based remote procedure call (RPC) services and an optical communication system implementing same
An embodiment of the present disclosure includes an RPC architecture that includes a central manager gateway with a client-facing side that allows for client access via web services protocols such as SOAP and REST. The central manager gateway further includes a server-facing side that can communicate with a plurality of network elements, with each network element implementing a common IDL architecture and RPC manager instance. Each of the network elements, and in particular their RPC manager instance, may communicate with other RPC manager instances to ‘learn’ the network topology for the system and maintain a topology database for purposes of exposing a naming service, e.g., a CORBA naming service. The network elements may elect one master element while the others remain as slaves. The central manager gateway may automatically locate the master network element and forward client requests to the same for servicing.
A system and method for efficient optical signal amplification with system monitoring features are provided. For example, an optical repeater may include two different 4-port thin-film gain flattening filters (TF-GFFs), which may be connected to provide a high-loss loop-back (HLLB) path in the optical repeater for system monitoring. The 4-port TF-GFF may have four different ports and may integrate the functionalities of a conventional GFF and a coupler into a single component, thereby increasing power efficiency of the optical repeater.
H04B 10/00 - Transmission systems employing electromagnetic waves other than radio-waves, e.g. infrared, visible or ultraviolet light, or employing corpuscular radiation, e.g. quantum communication
H04B 10/291 - Repeaters in which processing or amplification is carried out without conversion of the main signal from optical form
H04J 14/02 - Wavelength-division multiplex systems
H04B 10/294 - Signal power control in a multiwavelength system, e.g. gain equalisation
Techniques for secured partitioning of an optical transmission system to provide multi-client management access and a network management system implementing same
A system and method consistent with the present disclosure allows for a single NMS system to manage data access and control for N number of customer domains and associated users. In particular, an NMS consistent with the present disclosure may include a configuration that partitions the optical communication system by domain. For each domain, partitioning can further define per-user access constraints and privileges including access to specific equipment by, for instance, fiber pair designation, wavelength designation, specifically identified hardware elements, component categories, or any combination thereof. The NMS system may utilize a proxy server approach to authentication, e.g., using RADIUS, that allows for each party/customer to maintain separate authentication databases and equipment-specific constraints. The NMS may therefore validate users and enforce domain restrictions via the partitioning information such that each user has a secure ‘view’ of only those portions of the system associated with their particular domain.
Techniques for interfacing between web services and interface description language (IDL)-based remote procedure call (RPC) services and an optical communication system implementing same
An embodiment of the present disclosure includes an RPC architecture that includes a central manager gateway with a client-facing side that allows for client access via web services protocols such as SOAP and REST. The central manager gateway further includes a server-facing side that can communicate with a plurality of network elements, with each network element implementing a common IDL architecture and RPC manager instance. Each of the network elements, and in particular their RPC manager instance, may communicate with other RPC manager instances to ‘learn’ the network topology for the system and maintain a topology database for purposes of exposing a naming service, e.g., a CORBA naming service. The network elements may elect one master element while the others remain as slaves. The central manager gateway may automatically locate the master network element and forward client requests to the same for servicing.
Submarine cable branching units with fiber pair switching configured to allow any number of trunk cable fiber pairs to access the optical spectrum any number of branch cable fiber pairs. Access to a particular branch terminal is not limited to predefined subset of the trunk fiber pairs. This approach allows fewer branch cable fiber pairs to be equipped in each branching unit, reducing system cost, simplifies system planning and provides flexible routing of overall trunk cable capacity.
G02B 6/44 - Mechanical structures for providing tensile strength and external protection for fibres, e.g. optical transmission cables
H04J 14/02 - Wavelength-division multiplex systems
H04B 3/44 - Arrangements for feeding power to a repeater along the transmission line
H04B 10/80 - Optical aspects relating to the use of optical transmission for specific applications, not provided for in groups , e.g. optical power feeding or optical transmission through water
68.
Techniques for parameter reporting of elements in an optical transmission system using high loss loopback (HLLB) data and a line monitoring system implementing the same
A system and method consistent with the present disclosure provides for automated line monitoring system (LMS) baselining that enables capturing and updating of operational parameters specific to each repeater and associated undersea elements based on high loss loopback (HLLB) data. The captured operational parameters may then be utilized to satisfy queries targeting specific undersea elements in a Command-Response (CR) fashion. Therefore, command-response functionality may be achieved without the added cost, complexity and lifespan issues related to deploying undersea elements with on-board CR circuitry. As generally referred to herein, operational parameters include any parameter that may be derived directly or indirectly from HLLB data. Some example non-limiting examples of operational parameters include span gain loss, input power, output power, gain, and gain tilt.
H04B 10/071 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using a reflected signal, e.g. using optical time domain reflectometers [OTDR]
H04B 10/077 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using an in-service signal using a supervisory or additional signal
A separation duct for encompassing an elongate member. The duct includes longitudinal internal spacers extend longitudinally in a direction of a longitudinal axis of the duct. A longitudinal plane for each spacer is substantially parallel to the longitudinal plane of the other spacers. The spacers support the elongate member and resist slippage of the duct relative to the elongate member. The duct may be used to provide separation and protection for elongate members of a range of outside dimensions.
F16L 7/00 - Supporting pipes or cables inside other pipes or sleeves, e.g. for enabling pipes or cables to be inserted or withdrawn from under roads or railways without interruption of traffic
H02G 1/08 - Methods or apparatus specially adapted for installing, maintaining, repairing, or dismantling electric cables or lines for laying cables, e.g. laying apparatus on vehicle through tubing or conduit, e.g. rod or draw wire for pushing or pulling
H02G 9/06 - Installations of electric cables or lines in or on the ground or water in underground tubes or conduitsTubes or conduits therefor
F16L 57/00 - Protection of pipes or objects of similar shape against external or internal damage or wear
F16L 1/12 - Laying or reclaiming pipes on or under water
H02G 9/02 - Installations of electric cables or lines in or on the ground or water laid directly in or on the ground, river-bed or sea-bottomCoverings therefor, e.g. tile
70.
FAULT DETECTION AND REPORTING IN LINE MONITORING SYSTEMS
A system and method provides automated line monitoring using a machine learning fault classifier for determining whether a signature associated with the high loss loopback (HLLB) data matches a predetermined fault signature. The fault classifier may be applied to signatures generated in response to line monitoring signals of two different wavelengths. A fault may be reported only if the fault classifier indicates a fault in response to the signature for both wavelengths. A second fault classifier may also be used and a fault may be reported only if both the first and second fault classifiers indicate a fault in response to the signature for both wavelengths. A system consistent may also be configured to report the value of a pump degradation, span loss, or repeater failure fault, and may also, or alternatively, report the directionality of a span loss fault or the location of a fiber break fault.
H04B 10/071 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using a reflected signal, e.g. using optical time domain reflectometers [OTDR]
71.
Fault detection and reporting in line monitoring systems
In general, a system and method consistent with the present disclosure provides automated line monitoring using a machine learning fault classifier for determining whether a signature associated with the high loss loopback (HLLB) data matches a predetermined fault signature. The fault classifier may be applied to signatures generated in response to line monitoring signals of two different wavelengths. A fault may be reported only if the fault classifier indicates a fault in response to the signature for both wavelengths. A second fault classifier may also be used and a fault may be reported only if both the first and second fault classifiers indicate a fault in response to the signature for both wavelengths. A system consistent with the present disclosure may also, or alternatively, be configured to report the value of a pump degradation, span loss, or repeater failure fault, and may also, or alternatively, report the directionality of a span loss fault or the location of a fiber break fault.
H04B 10/00 - Transmission systems employing electromagnetic waves other than radio-waves, e.g. infrared, visible or ultraviolet light, or employing corpuscular radiation, e.g. quantum communication
H04B 10/071 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using a reflected signal, e.g. using optical time domain reflectometers [OTDR]
H04B 10/25 - Arrangements specific to fibre transmission
H04B 10/079 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using an in-service signal using measurements of the data signal
H04B 10/035 - Arrangements for fault recovery using loopbacks
72.
Automatic calibration of loopback data in line monitoring systems
A system and method for automatically calibrating loopback data in a line monitoring system of an optical communication system. Extra peaks in loopback data are calibrated out of the loopback data used by the system by identifying pairs of peaks in the loopback data associated with test signal transmissions through the same high loss loopback path from opposite ends of the optical transmission path.
H04B 10/00 - Transmission systems employing electromagnetic waves other than radio-waves, e.g. infrared, visible or ultraviolet light, or employing corpuscular radiation, e.g. quantum communication
H04B 10/077 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using an in-service signal using a supervisory or additional signal
H04B 10/079 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using an in-service signal using measurements of the data signal
H04B 10/035 - Arrangements for fault recovery using loopbacks
H04J 14/02 - Wavelength-division multiplex systems
H04B 10/07 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems
73.
In-service testing of optical signal-to-noise ratio
A system and method for in-service optical signal-to-noise ratio (OSNR) testing in optical communication systems. At least one OSNR test signal is combined onto an optical path with data channels. A receiver detects the received power of the OSNR test signal and provides output data representative of the OSNR of the system.
H04B 10/079 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using an in-service signal using measurements of the data signal
74.
Techniques for parameter reporting of elements in an optical transmission system using high loss loopback (HLLB) data and a line monitoring system implementing the same
A system and method consistent with the present disclosure provides for automated line monitoring system (LMS) baselining that enables capturing and updating of operational parameters specific to each repeater and associated undersea elements based on high loss loopback (HLLB) data. The captured operational parameters may then be utilized to satisfy queries targeting specific undersea elements in a Command-Response (CR) fashion. Therefore, command-response functionality may be achieved without the added cost, complexity and lifespan issues related to deploying undersea elements with on-board CR circuitry. As generally referred to herein, operational parameters include any parameter that may be derived directly or indirectly from HLLB data. Some example non-limiting examples of operational parameters include span gain loss, input power, output power, gain, and gain tilt.
H04B 10/035 - Arrangements for fault recovery using loopbacks
H04B 10/071 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using a reflected signal, e.g. using optical time domain reflectometers [OTDR]
75.
In-service testing of optical signal-to-noise ratio
A system and method for in-service optical signal-to-noise ratio (OSNR) testing in optical communication systems. At least one OSNR test signal is combined onto an optical path with data channels. A receiver detects the received power of the OSNR test signal and provides output data representative of the OSNR of the system.
H04B 10/079 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using an in-service signal using measurements of the data signal
76.
POWER DELIVERY IN SUBMARINE OPTICAL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS USING POWER FEED CONVERTERS
A submarine optical communication system using one or more power feed converters (122, 122a, 122b, 122c) for power delivery to repeaters (114-1...114-M). Power feed equipment (118, 118a, 118b) located one or more a landmasses (102, 104) is coupled to a power conductor (116, 116a, 116b, 116c) of an optical cable for powering repeaters (114- 1...114-M) coupled to cable. One or more power feed converter(s) (122, 122a, 122b, 122c) are coupled to the power conductor for converting current from power feed equipment to a constant output current or voltage for powering other repeaters coupled to the cable. Embodiments are robust to shunts of the power conductor.
H04B 10/80 - Optical aspects relating to the use of optical transmission for specific applications, not provided for in groups , e.g. optical power feeding or optical transmission through water
77.
Power delivery in submarine optical communication systems using power feed converters
A submarine optical communication system using one or more power feed converters for power delivery to repeaters. Power feed equipment located one or more a landmasses is coupled to a power conductor of an optical cable for powering repeaters coupled to cable. One or more power feed converter(s) are coupled to the power conductor for converting current from power feed equipment to a constant output current or voltage for powering other repeaters coupled to the cable. Embodiments are robust to shunts of the power conductor.
H04B 10/00 - Transmission systems employing electromagnetic waves other than radio-waves, e.g. infrared, visible or ultraviolet light, or employing corpuscular radiation, e.g. quantum communication
H04B 10/80 - Optical aspects relating to the use of optical transmission for specific applications, not provided for in groups , e.g. optical power feeding or optical transmission through water
H04B 10/25 - Arrangements specific to fibre transmission
78.
Techniques for providing adaptive power distribution using a multi-node network of power feed branching units (PFBUs) and an undersea optical communication system using same
In general, a branching configuration used in a wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) optical communication system, consistent with the present disclosure, includes a power feed branching unit (PFBU) having a multi-port DC/DC converter (DDCM) arrangement capable of a plurality of operating modes to distribute power in a bi-directional manner. The DDCM arrangement may include a plurality of ports for electrically coupling to one or more trunk path cable segments and for electrically coupling to a branch cable segment. A plurality of PFBUs may be disposed along a trunk path, with each PFBU powering an associated branch path, without each branch path necessarily having local power feed equipment (PFE). In instances where a branch path includes a local PFE, an associated PFBU may draw power from the branch path in order to make power available to the trunk path as needed.
H04B 10/00 - Transmission systems employing electromagnetic waves other than radio-waves, e.g. infrared, visible or ultraviolet light, or employing corpuscular radiation, e.g. quantum communication
H04B 10/80 - Optical aspects relating to the use of optical transmission for specific applications, not provided for in groups , e.g. optical power feeding or optical transmission through water
H04J 14/02 - Wavelength-division multiplex systems
TECHNIQUES FOR PROVIDING ADAPTIVE POWER DISTRIBUTION USING A MULTI-NODE NETWORK OF POWER FEED BRANCHING UNITS (PFBUS) AND AN UNDERSEA OPTICAL COMMUNICATION SYSTEM USING SAME
In general, a branching configuration used in a wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) optical communication system, consistent with the present disclosure, includes a power feed branching unit (PFBU) (118-3) having a multi-port DC/DC converter (DDCM) arrangement (501/518) capable of a plurality of operating modes to distribute power in a bi- directional manner. The DDCM arrangement (501/518) may include a plurality of ports (626- 1, 626-2, 626-3) for electrically coupling to one or more trunk path cable segments (114-3, 114-4) and for electrically coupling to a branch cable segment (113). A plurality of PFBUs (118-3, 118-4, 118-5, 118-6) may be disposed along a trunk path (112), with each PFBU powering an associated branch path, without each branch path necessarily having local power feed equipment (PFE). In instances where a branch path includes a local PFE (190), an associated PFBU may draw power from the branch path in order to make power available to the trunk path as needed.
H04B 3/44 - Arrangements for feeding power to a repeater along the transmission line
H04B 10/80 - Optical aspects relating to the use of optical transmission for specific applications, not provided for in groups , e.g. optical power feeding or optical transmission through water
80.
OPTICAL COMMUNICATION SYSTEM AND METHOD USING A NONLINEAR REVERSIBLE CODE FOR PROBABLISTIC CONSTELLATION SHAPING
A system and method involving using a nonlinear reversible code for probabilistic constellation shaping. A nonlinear reversible code encoder (204) receives information bits (i) and applies a nonlinear reversible code to the information bits to provide encoded bits (i+c). A mapper (206) maps the encoded bits (i+c) to successive amplitude and phase-shift keying (APSK) symbols. Each of the APSK symbols has an APSK modulation format with an associated constellation and the mapper (206) maps each of the symbols to an associated constellation location of the constellation in response to one or more associated ones of the encoded bits.
Techniques for providing high-resolution, standard-format output for line monitoring equipment (LME) (140) of a wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) communication system (100) is disclosed. LME (140) may transmit a plurality of LME test signals (λ1, 222) via an optical path (110, 120) of the WDM system (100) and perform gain measurements on reflections associated with the same at predetermined intervals. Gain measurements for each of the plurality of LME test signals ((λ1, 222) may be normalized and filtered to derive LME peak data. The WDM system may then output an LME results file (308) based on the above data and measurements.
H04B 10/071 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using a reflected signal, e.g. using optical time domain reflectometers [OTDR]
H04B 10/077 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using an in-service signal using a supervisory or additional signal
82.
Techniques for high-resolution line monitoring with a standardized output and an optical communication system using the same
Techniques for providing high-resolution, standard-format output for line monitoring equipment (LME) of a wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) communication system is disclosed. LME may transmit a plurality of LME test signals via an optical path of the WDM system and perform gain measurements on reflections associated with the same at predetermined intervals. Gain measurements for each of the plurality of LME test signals may be normalized and filtered to derive LME peak data. The WDM communication system may perform full scans with data points totaling millions/billions (e.g., depending on system length, fiber type, and number of transmitted LME test signals or test pulses) and normalize the same into a relatively small number of resulting data points within the LME peak data. The WDM system may then output an LME results file in a standard format which is compatible with commercial viewers and optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR) equipment.
H04B 10/071 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using a reflected signal, e.g. using optical time domain reflectometers [OTDR]
H04B 10/073 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using an out-of-service signal
H04B 10/079 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using an in-service signal using measurements of the data signal
H04J 14/02 - Wavelength-division multiplex systems
H04B 10/077 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using an in-service signal using a supervisory or additional signal
A separation duct for encompassing an elongate member. The duct includes longitudinal internal spacers extend longitudinally in a direction of a longitudinal axis of the duct. A longitudinal plane for each spacer is substantially parallel to the longitudinal plane of the other spacers. The spacers support the elongate member and resist slippage of the duct relative to the elongate member. The duct may be used to provide separation and protection for elongate members of a range of outside dimensions.
F16L 7/00 - Supporting pipes or cables inside other pipes or sleeves, e.g. for enabling pipes or cables to be inserted or withdrawn from under roads or railways without interruption of traffic
H02G 1/08 - Methods or apparatus specially adapted for installing, maintaining, repairing, or dismantling electric cables or lines for laying cables, e.g. laying apparatus on vehicle through tubing or conduit, e.g. rod or draw wire for pushing or pulling
H02G 9/06 - Installations of electric cables or lines in or on the ground or water in underground tubes or conduitsTubes or conduits therefor
F16L 57/00 - Protection of pipes or objects of similar shape against external or internal damage or wear
F16L 1/12 - Laying or reclaiming pipes on or under water
H02G 9/02 - Installations of electric cables or lines in or on the ground or water laid directly in or on the ground, river-bed or sea-bottomCoverings therefor, e.g. tile
This invention discloses a separation duct [100] for encompassing an elongate member [502]. The duct includes longitudinal internal spacers [208-1...208-8] extending longitudinally in a direction of a longitudinal axis of the duct. The spacers [208-1...208-8] support the elongate member [502] and resist slippage of the duct [100] relative to the elongate member [502]. The duct may be used to provide separation and protection for elongate members of a range of outside dimensions.
H02G 1/08 - Methods or apparatus specially adapted for installing, maintaining, repairing, or dismantling electric cables or lines for laying cables, e.g. laying apparatus on vehicle through tubing or conduit, e.g. rod or draw wire for pushing or pulling
F16L 7/00 - Supporting pipes or cables inside other pipes or sleeves, e.g. for enabling pipes or cables to be inserted or withdrawn from under roads or railways without interruption of traffic
H02G 9/06 - Installations of electric cables or lines in or on the ground or water in underground tubes or conduitsTubes or conduits therefor
85.
CODED MODULATION WITH AMPLITUDE AND PHASE-SHIFT KEYING HAVING A CIRCULAR CONSTELLATION FOR VARIABLE SPECTRAL EFFICIENCY
A system and method are described involving a coded modulation scheme using an M-APSK format with a circular constellation. A maximum achievable spectral efficiency for the transmitters may be selected [202] and a spectral efficiency step-size of the maximum achievable spectral efficiency may be specified [204]. The spectral efficiency for any transmitter in the system may be individually selected by reducing its spectral efficiency from the maximum achievable spectral efficiencies [206] by a selected number of steps corresponding to the step size [208].
A system and method involving using a nonlinear reversible code for probabilistic constellation shaping. A nonlinear reversible code encoder receives information bits and applies a nonlinear reversible code to the information bits to provide encoded bits. A mapper maps the encoded bits to successive amplitude and phase-shift keying (APSK) symbols. Each of the APSK symbols has an APSK modulation format with an associated constellation and the mapper maps each of the symbols to an associated constellation location of the constellation in response to one or more associated ones of the encoded bits.
H04B 10/00 - Transmission systems employing electromagnetic waves other than radio-waves, e.g. infrared, visible or ultraviolet light, or employing corpuscular radiation, e.g. quantum communication
Branching configuration including a cross-coupling arrangement to provide fault tolerance and topside recovery in the event of subsea umbilical assembly failure and system and method including same
In general, a branching configuration used in a wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) optical communication system, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure, includes a branch path with two or more optical paths cross-coupled to each other to provide redundant add and/or drop channel wavelengths to a branch terminal on each cross-coupled path. Accordingly, a fault condition affecting some of the cross-coupled optical paths may occur physically downstream from the cross-coupling, e.g., within a subsea umbilical cable or associated termination equipment. However, so long as at least one of the cross-coupled optical paths remains operational, then branch terminal equipment in the branch terminal may continue to receive channel wavelengths associated with a faulted optical path via an operational optical path by virtue of cross-coupling. Thus, the cross-coupled configuration reduces or otherwise eliminates the necessity of allocating spare optical paths within the subsea umbilical cable.
In optical amplifier assembly [308-1..308-n] for a spatial division multiplexing (SDM) optical communication system [300], each optical amplifier assembly [308-1..308-n] includes a single pump assembly [318-1..318N] configured for causing amplification of signals traveling on separate fiber paths [310e, 310w] in different directions. Each fiber path [310e, 310w] includes a plurality of spatial dimensions. The single pump assembly [318- 1..318N] includes a plurality of pump sources to provide redundancy and the optical amplifier assembly [308-1..308-n] further includes splitters [330a, 330b] for splitting outputs of the pump sources to amplifiers coupled to the different spatial dimensions.
Optical amplifier assembly for spatial division multiplexing (SDM) optical communication systems. Each optical amplifier assembly includes a single pump assembly configured for causing amplification of signals traveling on separate fiber paths in different directions. Each fiber path includes a plurality of spatial dimensions. The single pump assembly includes a plurality of pump sources to provide redundancy and the optical amplifier assembly further includes splitters for splitting outputs of the pump sources to amplifiers coupled to the different spatial dimensions. Different modulation formats may be used on the different spatial dimensions with different pump power being provided to each of the modulation formats. Amplifiers with complementary outputs may be coupled to average out gain deviations.
Techniques for managing a data communication network (DCN) are disclosed, in accordance with an embodiment, and provide planning, maintenance, and validation (e.g., auditing) functionality for the purpose of managing network elements across a plurality of stations/locations associated with an optical communication network. In accordance with an embodiment, a computing device includes a DCN configuration interface and engine. The DCN configuration interface enables modeling of a DCN based on a plurality of user-provided parameters and constraints. The DCN configuration interface may then generate settings files in accordance with the DCN model. The DCN configuration interface further allows previously-generated configuration files to be read in for the purpose of performing updates, adding new stations, new network elements, new equipment types, new equipment models, and so on. Therefore, the DCN configuration interface disclosed herein reduces or eliminates address conflicts and other misconfigurations during provisioning.
A system and method including polarization modulation of supervisory signals for reducing interference with data signals in a wavelength division multiplexed optical communication system. At least one supervisory signal for monitoring a transmission path and/or elements coupled to the transmission path is fast polarization modulated and launched with data signals onto the path. Polarization modulating of the supervisory signal reduces impact of the supervisory signal on the data signals and improves system performance.
H04B 10/58 - Compensation for non-linear transmitter output
H04B 10/077 - Arrangements for monitoring or testing transmission systemsArrangements for fault measurement of transmission systems using an in-service signal using a supervisory or additional signal
H04B 10/2569 - Arrangements specific to fibre transmission for the reduction or elimination of distortion or dispersion due to polarisation mode dispersion [PMD]
92.
Efficient optical signal amplification systems and methods
An optical communication amplification system may include a number of amplification stages for an optical signal that includes a first optical wavelength band signal portion and a second optical wavelength band signal portion. Each amplification stage may separate the first optical wavelength band signal portion from the second optical wavelength band signal portion. The separated first optical wavelength band signal portion is amplified using one or more first optical wavelength band amplifiers and the separated second optical wavelength band signal portion are amplified using one or more second optical wavelength band amplifiers. The amplified first optical wavelength band signal portion is filtered and a reflected portion of the first optical wavelength band signal portion may be used to provide energy to the one or more second optical wavelength band amplifiers to increase the power or gain of the separated second optical wavelength band signal portion.
H04B 10/80 - Optical aspects relating to the use of optical transmission for specific applications, not provided for in groups , e.g. optical power feeding or optical transmission through water
93.
Efficient optical signal amplification systems and methods
An optical communication amplification system may include a number of amplification stages for an optical signal that includes a first optical wavelength band signal portion and a second optical wavelength band signal portion. Each amplification stage may separate the first optical wavelength band signal portion from the second optical wavelength band signal portion. The separated first optical wavelength band signal portion is amplified using one or more first optical wavelength band amplifiers and the separated second optical wavelength band signal portion are amplified using one or more second optical wavelength band amplifiers. The amplified first optical wavelength band signal portion is filtered and a reflected portion of the first optical wavelength band signal portion may be used to provide energy to the one or more second optical wavelength band amplifiers to increase the power or gain of the separated second optical wavelength band signal portion.
H04J 14/02 - Wavelength-division multiplex systems
H04B 10/80 - Optical aspects relating to the use of optical transmission for specific applications, not provided for in groups , e.g. optical power feeding or optical transmission through water
A wet plant manager (WPM) platform is disclosed in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, and supports management of Smart Undersea Network Elements (SUNEs) by providing an abstracted view of the same to higher level network management functions within an optical communication system. The optical communication system can include an optical cable system extending between two or more cable landing stations (CLSs). Each CLS may execute a respective instance of a WPM platform service, with the collective WPM platform performing self-coordination such that only one instance of a WPM service is “active” at any given time. The active WPM service supports a plurality of network topologies architected around SUNEs and “bridges” them such that requests to communicate with a particular SUNE get handled in a transparent manner without the requesters specific knowledge of which command/response (CR) telemetry path was utilized to satisfy the request.
H04B 10/00 - Transmission systems employing electromagnetic waves other than radio-waves, e.g. infrared, visible or ultraviolet light, or employing corpuscular radiation, e.g. quantum communication
H04L 12/721 - Routing procedures, e.g. shortest path routing, source routing, link state routing or distance vector routing
H04B 10/80 - Optical aspects relating to the use of optical transmission for specific applications, not provided for in groups , e.g. optical power feeding or optical transmission through water
G08C 23/06 - Non-electric signal transmission systems, e.g. optical systems using light waves, e.g. infrared through light guides, e.g. optical fibres
An optical subcarrier multiplex system. An input data signal is jointly coded with at least one forward error correction (FEC) code before symbol mapping and before subcarrier modulation. Joint FEC coding mitigates non-uniform subcarrier performance.
A system and method that enforces one or more policy rules on user-allocated bandwidth portions of the overall system bandwidth, for example in an optical fiber transmission system. The policy rules may limit, for example, the range of optical wavelengths, the acceptable range on the output-power-spectral density and/or the total per-band optical power within the user-allocated bandwidth that a user may provide on the system. The system may include one or more user control units that receives respective user output signals and applies all policy rules. The resulting optical output(s) of the UCU(s) may be provided an optical transmission path for transmission to a receiving terminal. In the receiving terminal, one or more UCU(s) may apply receiver policy rules, for instance by limiting the range of wavelengths transmitted to a receive subsystem. In addition, the system may be configured to dynamically add and/or remove loading signals to the transmitted signal in response to changes in loading of the user-allocated portions of the system bandwidth, e.g. through dropping or adding of channels by a user or by equipment failures.
H04B 10/80 - Optical aspects relating to the use of optical transmission for specific applications, not provided for in groups , e.g. optical power feeding or optical transmission through water
97.
Spatial division multiplexing in limited power optical communication systems
This spatial division multiplexing (SDM) in power-limited optical communication systems. In general, an SDM optical transmission system may be configured to increase data capacity over the data capacity of a non-SDM optical transmission system while maintaining power consumption at or below that of the existing non-SDM optical transmission system. To realize such an improvement in performance without increasing power consumption, an example SDM optical transmission may be constructed by reducing system bandwidth, reducing and/or altering equipment for filtering, reducing optical amplifier spacing, reducing operational amplifier power consumption, etc. In this manner, increased data transmission performance may be realized even where available power may be strictly limited.
A system and method for transmitting a wavelength division multiplexed (WDM) signal on an optical transmission path. The system includes at least one first modulation format transmitter configured to generate an associated first modulation format signal on an associated signal wavelength using a first modulation format having a first spectral efficiency, and at least one second modulation format transmitter configured to generate an associated second modulation format signal on an associated signal wavelength using a second modulation format having a second spectral efficiency higher than the first spectral efficiency. The second modulation format signals having an optical power set nominally higher than the optical power of the first modulation format signals. The first and second modulation format signals are combined into an aggregate output signal on the optical transmission path.
An optical communication system with a hierarchical branch configuration. The system includes first and second cable landing stations coupled to a trunk path in an optical cable. At least one hub-node is coupled to the trunk path through an associated hub-node branching unit. Sub-nodes are coupled the hub-nodes through associated sub-node branching units and sub-node paths in the optical cable. Sub-node signals may be communicated between the sub-nodes and the hub-nodes without being provided on the trunk path.
H04J 14/02 - Wavelength-division multiplex systems
H04B 10/80 - Optical aspects relating to the use of optical transmission for specific applications, not provided for in groups , e.g. optical power feeding or optical transmission through water
100.
Optical communication system with a hierarchical branch configuration
An optical communication system with a hierarchical branch configuration. The system includes first and second cable landing stations coupled to a trunk path in an optical cable. At least one hub-node is coupled to the trunk path through an associated hub-node branching unit. In an embodiment, mid-nodes are coupled the hub-nodes through associated mid-node branching units and mid-node paths in the optical cable. Mid-node signals may be communicated between the mid-nodes and the hub-nodes without being provided on the trunk path. Sub-nodes are coupled to at least one of the mid-nodes through associated sub-node branching units and sub-node paths in the optical cable. Sub-node signals may also be communicated between the sub-nodes and the mid-nodes without being provided on the trunk path or the mid-node path.
patents
