Method and apparatus for transmitting a response signal from an optical repeater to a terminal requesting status information
US6404527B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 28, 1999 |
| Grant date | Jun 11, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 28, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04B10/298
- WIPO fieldTelecommunications
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method for transmitting an optical response signal from a repeater to a terminal requesting status information pertaining to the repeater. In accordance with the method, in response to a command signal, a bias current applied to a laser pump within the repeater is modulated such that the laser pump generates modulated optical output power. The said modulation reflects the status information that is requested. An average value of the bias current applied to the laser pump is reduced while the bias current is being modulated. The modulated optical output power is applied to a doped optical fiber located within the repeater to amplitude modulate a communication signal traversing the doped optical fiber. A portion of the amplitude modulated communication signal is directed to the requesting terminal. The portion of the amplitude modulated communication signal may be received to detect a response signal embodied in the amplitude modulation.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.