1 Stacked Label Optical Burst Switched Networks using Tunable Lasers: Prospects, Viability and Architectures

Abstract: The current economic climate calls for thoroughly evaluated and economically sound solutions. In this paper we examine the case for Optical Burst Switching (OBS) based on work that has been carried out within IST STOLAS. The main objective of OBS is to improve the throughput of packet-switched networks. In this paper we present the underlying rationale for OBS networks with reference to service evolution scenarios and examine the circumstances and network scenarios that make OBS a viable solution. Appropriate node and network architectures are also discussed. Key words: optical burst switching, optical network 1