Wavelength-division multiplexing of channels in fiber-optic communication lines (review)

A review is given of the prospects for the application of wavelength-division multiplexing of channels in fiberoptic communications, i.e., for the simultaneous transmission of several data signals at different optical carrier frequencies. The various systems of multiplexers and demultiplexers developed by the application of spectroscopic methods to optical communications are described together with systems based on new physical principles. The existing communication systems with wavelength-division multiplexing of channels are described. It is concluded that such multiplexing can be used to handle tens of channels in the same fiber waveguide tens of kilometers long.