Multiplexing/demultiplexing apparatus for wavelength division multiplexed system and wavelength division multiplexed passive optical subscriber networks using the same apparatus

Abstract

A multiplexing/demultiplexing apparatus used in wavelength division multiplexed passive optical subscriber networks comprises a multiplexing/demultiplexing means each having a natural number N input and output ports, wherein wavelength divided signals in one direction inputted through the N2212#1 input ports are multiplexed onto one output port, and simultaneously wavelength division multiplexed signals in the other direction inputted through the remainder one input port are demultiplexed onto the remainder N2212#1 output ports. According to the present invention it is possible to implement economical and efficient wavelength division multiplexed passive optical subscriber networks, by including two WGR's, one at the central office and one at the remote node to perform simultaneous multiplexing and demultiplexing of signals in upstream and downstream, and employing an erbium-doped fiber amplifier to be able to use a low-cost light source such as a light-emitting diode.