As a result of the ever increasing demand for higher bandwidths optical
components appeared in the access networks as well. The technologies in use today are
fully fledged and standardized. Yet the direction of development, the optimal topology
and network structure selection are still an important issue. The goal is to find a solution
that is as compatible with the existing network as possible so that the adaptation would
be inexpensive.
In the first part of my thesis work I review the current and legacy access network
transmission technologies, their evolvement, including copper-based, wireless and optical
technologies, then I take a look into the possible directions of development today with an
emphasis on the realization of the new generations of wavelength division techniques.
My objective was to develop a method for uplink data transmission in an optical
wavelength division multiplexing network and the construction of a device that can be
integrated into such a network by using semiconductor optical amplifier. I performed
measurements on the amplifier in order to acquire the needed parameters so that it can be
used as an intensity modulator. I also performed further measurements on the finished
device in order to determine the suitable value for the modulation current and determine
the performance.