Paper Summary:

Optical Code Division Multiple Access (OCDMA) is a type of multiplexing technique that allows several users to share the same fiber-optic link by assigning each of them a unique optical code. This multiplexing technique is commonly used in fiber-optic communication systems.

OCDMA works by encoding each bit of data with a unique code that can be recognized and separated at the receiving end. Each bit of information is transformed into a longer bit sequence called a code word. As these code words are unique to each user, even if multiple users transmit at the same time, the receiver can separate the different users’ information by recognizing the different code words. This way, multiple users can transmit information simultaneously without interfering with each other.

This technology has the advantage of allowing more users to share the same transmission medium (fiber optic link) at the same time, and it is especially useful in situations where simultaneous data transmissions are required. Another advantage of OCDMA is that it can provide a level of security, as a receiver must know the specific code word to decode the information. Passive optical networks (PON) are a common use case for OCDMA.

However, OCDMA also has some drawbacks, including the complexity of the encoding and decoding process, and the need for precise synchronization between the transmitters and receivers. It also requires more processing power compared to some other multiplexing techniques, due to the complex codes used.

Source:

OCDMA and Optical Coding: Principles, Applications, and Challenges [Topics in Optical Communications] | IEEE Journals & Magazine | IEEE Xplore