Towards Manufacturing of "Massive WDM" Metro (ToM3)

The aim of this manufacturing fellowship is to address the technology, architecture, performance and manufacturing needs of next generation optical communications systems for metro networks. Optical metro networks are undergoing tremendous growth as an unprecedented change in the distribution of network traffic, driven by requirements to ensure a superior quality of service to the end-user, leads to the concentration and localisation of traffic. The programme targets two specific network functions: compact, scalable and power-efficient multi-carrier "super-channel" transceivers at baud rates of 28-32Gbaud and above, and scalable, wide-band (120nm), segmented discrete Raman optical fibre amplifiers. Innovative product processes enabled by digital coherent technology and DSP-based monitoring of key transceiver parameters will be explored to address manufacturing yield and extended test times for arrayed transceivers. Novel designs will be developed to minimise bend losses, manual interventions, and to take advantage of robotic assembly, thereby introducing the required consistency in critical assembly processes for segmented amplifier manufacture. New equipment architectures and software-enabled re-purposing will be explored, focussed on energy efficiency, cost-effectiveness, longevity, and manufacturability. System performance will be evaluated in detailed numerical models of target networks serving great metropolises like Greater London, and compared with extensive laboratory tests in recirculating loop and extended optical fibre test beds.