Ottawa, Canada

John Duncan McNicol

This inventor holds 56 USPTO granted patents, primarily in Optical Communication Systems (CPC class H04B). Top assignees: Infinera Corporation, Nortel Networks Corporation, Northern Telecom Limited. Active years: 1984-2024.


% Patents Active = 92.9

Average Co-Inventor Count = 2.5

ph-index = 20

Forward Citations = 1,190(Granted Patents)

Forward Citations (Not Self Cited) = 1,140(Dec 10, 2025)


Inventors with similar research interests:


Location History:

  • Nepean, CA (1984 - 1992)
  • Kingswear, GB (1999 - 2000)
  • Brixham, GB (2000)
  • Vaucresson, FR (2001 - 2002)
  • Ottowa, CA (2016)
  • Sunnyvale, CA (US) (2022)
  • Ottawa, CA (1993 - 2024)

Company Filing History:


Years Active: 1984-2024

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Areas of Expertise:
Hub-Leaf Laser Synchronization
Subcarrier Communication
Optical Dispersion Compensation
Multi-Carrier Modems
Frequency Agile Architecture
Wavelength Division Multiplexing
Digital Performance Monitoring
Raman Amplification
Carrier Lock Detection
Adaptive Error Slicer
Intensity-Based Modulator
56 patents (USPTO):Explore Patents

Title: The Innovative Contributions of John Duncan McNicol

Introduction: John Duncan McNicol is a prominent inventor based in Ottawa, Canada, known for his remarkable contributions to the field of optical systems and telecommunications. With an impressive portfolio of 56 patents, McNicol has played a crucial role in the advancement of laser technology and synchronization methods in communication systems.

Latest Patents: Among his latest inventions is the "Hub-leaf laser synchronization" patent. This innovative network comprises a primary node and multiple secondary nodes, wherein each node includes a shared laser utilized for both transmission and coherent detection. By detecting the frequency of the primary node's laser, the secondary nodes can effectively adjust their laser frequencies, enhancing the coherence and reliability of data reception. Additionally, McNicol has developed a patent focusing on "Synchronization for subcarrier communication". This invention outlines methods, systems, and apparatuses for synchronizing an optical system with leaf systems, utilizing a local oscillator signal to achieve accurate clock synchronization.

Career Highlights: McNicol's influential career includes significant tenures at leading technology firms. He has notably worked at Infinera Corporation and Nortel Networks Corporation, where he contributed to cutting-edge research and development in optical communications.

Collaborations: Throughout his career, McNicol has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Kuang-Tsan Wu and Han Henry Sun. These partnerships have fostered innovation and have played a vital role in addressing complex challenges within the telecommunications industry.

Conclusion: John Duncan McNicol's innovative work in the field of lasers and communication synchronization has significantly influenced the industry. His extensive patent portfolio and collaborative efforts with fellow inventors continue to drive advancements that would shape the future of technology. McNicol's legacy as an inventor demonstrates the importance of creativity and collaboration in achieving groundbreaking innovations.

Profile summary based on public USPTO records.
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