Packet-Optical Integration

The operator’s paradox for the past several years has been that while there is an explosion in data traffic volumes to the tune of 45-65% yearly, the corresponding revenue growth is in the single digits at best. To bridge this gap, providers must assess how to better architect their networks to reduce the transport-cost per bit, conserve space and power, and improve network performance to lower the opex. (Statistics show that service providers spend almost 5 opex dollars for each capex dollar![1]). They must also optimize their networks to efficiently carry high growth services like Internet access, packet traffic from 3G/4G wireless networks, and video.