Abstract
Next generation communication networks will be characterized by the coexistence of multiple technologies and user devices in an integrated fashion. The increasing number of devices owned by a single user will lead to a new communication paradigm: users owning multiple devices that form cooperative networks, and networks of different users that communicate with each other, e.g., acquiring Internet access through each other. In this communication scenario no user intervention should be required and technology should seamlessly adapt to the user's context, preferences, and needs. In this paper we address one of those scenarios, interworking between Personal Area Networks, using legacy technologies and the Ambient Network and Network Composition concepts, herein explained. We argue that new functionalities should be introduced to enable effortless use of legacy technologies in such dynamic and heterogeneous environments. © 2005 IEEE.

Abstract

Abstract

Abstract
A simple splice technique to fuse a SMF-28 (TM) and a microstructured fibre using a conventional electric-are splicer is presented. The technique consists in applying the electric arc in the SMF-28 (TM) region. The fusion-loss dependence with arc duration for constant fusion power is also investigated. A splice loss of 0.25 dB is obtained with high rtproducibility. (c) 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Abstract
A multiplexer/demultiplexer for 100GHz channel spacing based on chirped fibre Bragg gratings with different bandwidths and optical circulators is presented. The spectral characteristics, specifications and operation of these passive devices are described, showing its potential use in dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) applications.

Abstract
The current status of the research and development as well as the recent contributions in optical communications at INESC Porto is reviewed. This review includes all the work carried out in the last few years in optical fiber communications, namely the development of passive and active optical devices. Some of the passive structures that have been studied and developed are: add-drop multiplexers, multiplexer/ demultiplexer based on Bragg grating technology, dispersion compensators, and optical cross-connects. Active photonic devices such as wavelength converters, fiber lasers, and fiber amplifiers have also been studied. New ideas are being continuously developed and tested.