Physical-layer-aware performance evaluation of SDM networks based on SMF bundles, MCFs, and FMFs

In this work, we compare the performance of several space division multiplexing (SDM) network realizations utilizing different types of transmission media. In this regard, we first present a tool developed for the estimation of signal quality degradation in SDM-based optical networks. The tool supports SDM networks utilizing few-mode fibers (FMFs) and multicore fibers (MCFs), as well as bundles of single-mode fibers (BuSMFs), and provides an accurate quality of transmission (QoT) estimation allowing the network operators and designers to take into account physical layer impairments while performing network planning analysis. Considering the proposed QoT tool, we present extensive simulation results comparing the performance of FMFs, MCFs, and BuSMFs in terms of maximum achievable optical transparent reach in a multispan point-to-point scenario, where the impact of amplifier span length, channel spacing, and number of co-propagating spectral channels is studied. These results are used to perform physical-layer-aware SDM network planning analysis following the LOGON approach, which allows us to evaluate the impact of reach-limited transmission along different types of fibers in a networking scenario for different sizes of an optical network topology. The results of this study compare different SDM network realizations in terms of average spectrum utilization and the number of in-operation transceivers operating over different modulation formats showcasing the benefits and drawbacks of SDM networks relying on different transmission media.