The present invention relates to a wavelength division multiplexed (WDM)
apparatus for monitoring optical frequencies, allowing optical channel
frequency monitoring using the crossover property of an arrayed-waveguide
grating and pilot tones that are in wide use in optical communication
networks and enhancing efficiency of operation, maintenance, and
management of WDM optical communication networks.The present invention
provides a WDM apparatus for monitoring optical frequencies comprising
optical demultiplexing means for optically demultiplexing optical signals
including externally added pilot tone signals, photo-detecting means for
photo-electrically converting the output of said optical demultiplexing
means, and frequency estimating means for estimating the frequency of the
optical signals by measuring the amplitudes of the pilot tones from the
output of said photo-detecting means.