Performance of the COD statistical packet multiplexor using optical loss compensation

Optically transparent time-division multiplexors and switches can be used to create terabit packet-switched networks. Cascaded Optical Delay (COD) multiplexors are modular, buffered 2:1 statistical packet multiplexors built from "smart" crossbars and fiber delay lines. We have implemented the fundamental unit of COD multiplexors, a memoryless 2:1 packet multiplexor. It accepts fixed-length packets. It is designed to handle slotted and unslotted traffic, so it does not require network synchronization. This multiplexor has been built using off-the-shelf components. We demonstrate its switching characteristics for 340 ns packets, as well as present its measured packet loss rate. It can be used to make larger, buffered multiplexors with improved packet loss rates. We present the statistical insertion loss distribution associated with buffered COD multiplexors. Furthermore, we outline a method of optical loss compensation which eliminates the insertion loss distribution.