An active optical network, also known as a hybrid network, is a type of optical network that uses both active and passive components. In a passive optical network (PON), all the optical signals are transmitted through optical fibers without any electrical or optical amplification. However, in an active optical network, some of the optical signals are transmitted through active components, such as optical amplifiers or optical-electrical-optical (OEO) converters, which are used to amplify the signals and overcome the limitations of the passive components.

The active components in an active optical network provide a number of advantages, including increased bandwidth, improved signal quality, and enhanced network reliability. They also allow for better signal management and routing, which is essential in larger and more complex optical networks. The active components in an active optical network can be used to increase the distance between the optical transmitter and receiver, which is particularly important in long-haul communications networks.

In addition to the active components, an active optical network also contains passive components, such as optical splitters and couplers, which are used to distribute and route the optical signals within the network. The combination of active and passive components in an active optical network provides a highly flexible and scalable solution that can be tailored to meet the specific requirements of different types of networks and applications.

Overall, the use of active components in an active optical network offers many benefits over traditional passive optical networks, making it an attractive solution for modern optical communications systems.

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