Optical Switching Networks describes all the major switching paradigms developed for
modern optical networks, discussing their operation, advantages, disadvantages, and
implementation. Following a review of the evolution of optical wavelength division
multiplexing (WDM) networks, an overview of the future of optical networks is set out.
The latest developments of techniques applied in optical access, local, metropolitan, and
wide area networks are covered, including detailed technical descriptions of generalized
multiprotocol label switching, waveband switching, photonic slot routing, optical flow,
burst, and packet switching. The convergence of optical and wireless access networks is
also discussed, as are the IEEE 802.17 Resilient Packet Ring and IEEE 802.3ah Ethernet
passive optical network standards and their WDM upgraded derivatives. The feasibility,
challenges, and potential of next-generation optical networks are described in a survey
of state-of-the-art optical networking testbeds. Animations showing how the key optical
switching techniques work are available via the Web, as are lecture slides.
This authoritative account of the major application areas of optical networks is ideal
for graduate students and researchers in electrical engineering and computer science as
well as practitioners involved in the optical networking industry.