ROADM Components 2008

ROADMs are systems that allow the very flexible, remote selection of wavelengths transiting a given intermediate node on a fiber network for dropping and/or adding. They allow access to any of the wavelengths going through a node (or, in more limited ROADM implementations, access to a set of the transiting wavelengths) for use of the data on the chosen wavelength and the possibility of adding to, or modifying, the data on that wavelength for transmitting it on to the next node(s). They also allow the interconnection of multiple intersecting networks (multiple degree nodes) at the optical level, avoiding the expense and complexity of OEO conversions to achieve the interconnection. The device offers the promise of substantial savings in operations costs, and many operational benefits.

In the six or so years of previous ROADM history, we have witnessed a continuum of advancing capabilities and technologies in ROADMS. Now several companies have recently introduced products that are Edge ROADMS (although the name is certainly not standardized) with reduced capabilities, and re-use of existing technology on a cost-reduced basis.

Now in early 2008, the ROADM has become a standard part of long-haul networks - to be included as a matter of course in any new network, and they have become a major update objective for existing networks. They have also become of important to metro networks. In addition to the maturity of application, ROADMs have also developed a third generation technology base - the Wavelength Selective Switch (WSS) that has quickly become the ' gold standard.' Now the new application that is driving cost savings is the use of low cost ROADMs on the Edge of the network.

Our focus for this report is the edge ROADM. There are forecasts (probably the first available anywhere), application sketches, complete vendor coverage, technology discussions, etc - all aimed at the edge ROADM. While the edge ROADM is our focus, the report also contains a complete update on all aspects of core and metro ROADMs, as well - including forecasts (with component forecast separately provided), application information, full technology discussions, and complete vendor information.

• Comprehensive Coverage of Components for ROADM types.
  • Coverage of Four Generations of ROADMs.
  • Including WSS and Edge ROADMs
• One of the first reports to ever cover components for Edge ROADMs - includes application descriptions; quantity, price and market forecasts; Vendors; and technologies.
• Full description of the forecasting methodology used in the report.
• Description of underlying technologies of ROADMs and how various components are used.
• Exhaustive listing of vendors. Vendors' lists and discussions, separated into Component Vendors and tunable laser and filters vendors. All highlighting most current products.
• Extensive Forecasts for ROADMs:
  • By Type
  • By Region (USA and World)
  • By System Quantities
• Extensive Forecasts for ROADM Components and Subassemblies:
  • Components Forecasts in same detail as Systems
  • Nine different components included.
• Report has over 130 pages.
• Report has over 50 figures - drawings, tables, and graphs, all exclusive to this report.
• By an author with extensive consulting experience in the field and the author of six other major ROADM reports - Clifford R. Holliday.
• From the Lightwave Series of Consistent, Compatible reports on the new Lightwave Network!