INTRODUCTION
STUDY GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
The goal in conducting this study was to forecast the future of emerging All Optical Network (AON) markets and assess growth potential over a 5-year period from 2003 to 2008. Key objectives were to: examine strategies for resolving "last mile" limitations, provide a comprehensive comparative analysis of technologies, review related research and development, and forecast the future direction of the AON markets.
REASONS FOR DOING THIS STUDY
While carriers have dark fiber excess and fiber manufacturers see a "glut", All Optical Network (AON) equipment and service companies are taking advantage of the existing fiber infrastructure. With the increasing market demand for bandwidth in local and remote applications, industry is developing and deploying communications networks to accommodate the demand by resolving "last mile" limitations. Two major technology types of AON technology evolved in this effort: Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) and Time Division Multiplexing (TDM).
Some maturity has been achieved with Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) optical networks and end user technologies; however, bandwidth capabilities are still too limited to meet current market demands alone. Time Division Multiplexing (TDM) optical networks and end user technologies have been shown to greatly increase bandwidth capabilities and are obtaining a market share even though the technology type is still considered immature. This evolution implies a need to study the emerging markets.
Transitioning from the current legacy network strategies has presented multiple challenges globally. New industry coalitions are emerging to address the need for new global standards and cooperation. The development of new standards and collaboration is necessary to reduce or eliminate limitations in technology and increase available bandwidth in the current infrastructure.
This has facilitated relatively seamless integration of new communications technologies with the current infrastructure and provides a method of transition to Next Generation Networks (NGN). These industry activities have led to new deployments of fiber optic communications systems in many areas of the world with new industry players. These new players are emerging as Building Local Exchange Carriers (BLEC) presenting new competition for the industry in terms of resolving "last mile" limitations.
The approach taken in this analysis will result in market forecasts by technology type, technologies, and applications. In addition, the study will further result in market forecasts for deployment and implementation of All Optical Networks in Domestic, European, Asian, and other markets. Statistical tables and comprehensive analysis will provide a complete breakdown and correlation between AON technology types, technologies, and applications.
CONTRIBUTION OF THE STUDY AND FOR WHOM
The emerging markets for all optical networks and new telecommunications industry players over the next few years will have a significant global impact in the process of transitioning to NGNs with broadband capacity. All links in the fiber-optics communications supply chain, including optical component manufacturers, communications equipment vendors, testing services, and service providers, will be affected as the demand for bandwidth continues to grow.
As more dark fibers are utilized or "lit" with the emergence of the new standards enabling the transition to Next Generation Networks from the current legacy platform, broadband capacity will become commonplace. This report will be of interest to professionals engaged in fiber optics technologies, products and services, telecommunications, engineering and communications standards, NGN technologies, All Optical Network technologies, "last mile" resolution strategies, and research and development.
Finally, the detailed market analysis will be of use to senior decision-makers, business development managers, and investment professionals. Specifically, the report targets:
- optical subsystem suppliers
- optical component suppliers
- optical subsystem/component sales professionals
- optical subsystem/component marketing professionals
- optical network equipment vendors
- traditional carriers-Regional Bell Operating Carriers (RBOC), Incumbent Local Exchange Carriers (ILEC), Competitive Local Exchange Carriers (CLEC), Interexchange Carriers (IXC)
- building Local Exchange Carriers (BLEC)
- photonics circuit engineers
- telecommunications engineers
- network engineers
- optical materials engineers
- optical researchers
- semiconductor material suppliers
- semiconductor equipment vendors
- NGN researchers
- network and communications systems planners
- merger, acquisition, and investment executives
- product development managers
- industry and standards organizations
- government entities
- economy analysts
- conformance testing engineers
SCOPE AND FORMAT
The scope of this study will encompass the major AON technologies and applications markets. Technology types are divided into Time Division Multiplexing (TDM), Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM), and other types with concomitant components, including optical sensors, grouped as: amplifiers, control systems, converters, distribution systems, management systems, materials, multiplexers, optical terminals, routers, signaling equipment, switches, and transmission systems.
Applications are divided into four major categories: Broadcast Television, Telemedicine/Videoconference, Tactical Internetworking, and Legacy Telecom/Network Systems. The study will: analyze each technology, determine its current market status, examine its impact on future applications markets, and present forecasts of growth over the next 5 years. Technological issues including the latest trends will be discussed. Other influential factors such as research and development, funding, and deployment limitations will also be reviewed.
INFORMATION AND SOURCES
Forecasts are based on current industry data, SEC filings, government databases, inputs from industry experts, and standard technology forecasting methodologies. Information sources include extensive interviews with key players in the telecommunications markets, market and scientific researchers, academicians, and leading stakeholders in emerging standards and industry organizations. In addition, trade magazines and industry reports were consulted. ADC, ADVA Optical, Cogent Communications, and Marconi Corporation provided specific permissions for company profiles. All inputs were greatly appreciated. Some of the related BCC publications include but are not limited to: | 
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