Spectrum-Convertible BVWXC Placement in OFDM-based Elastic Optical Networks

TL;DR

This paper explores spectrum conversion in OFDM-based elastic optical networks, proposing architectures and algorithms to optimize the placement of spectrum-convertible cross-connects, thereby reducing connection blocking probability.

Contribution

It introduces three architectures for spectrum conversion in BVWXCs, develops an analytical method for blocking probability, and proposes an algorithm for optimal SCBVWXC placement.

Findings

Analytical method accurately predicts blocking probability.

Proposed placement algorithm improves network performance.

Simulation confirms effectiveness of architectures and algorithms.

Abstract

Spectrum conversion can improve the performance of OFDM-based Elastic Optical Networks (EONs) by relaxing the continuity constraint and consequently reducing connection request blocking probability during Routing and Spectrum Assignment (RSA) process. We propose three different architectures for including spectrum conversion capability in Bandwidth-Variable Wavelength Cross-Connects (BVWXCs). To compare the capability of the introduced architectures, we develop an analytical method for computing average connection request blocking probability in a spectrum-convertible OFDM-based EON in which all, part or none of the BVWXCs can convert the spectrum. An algorithm for distributing a limited number of Spectrum-Convertible Bandwidth-Variable Wavelength Cross-Connects (SCBVWXCs) in an OFDM-based EON is also proposed. Finally, we use simulation results to evaluate the accuracy of the proposed method for calculating connection request blocking probability and the capability of the introduced algorithm for SCBVWXC placement.