Abstract

Two different semi-analytical methods for error probability estimation in PDM-QPSK optical communication systems are investigated. We consider the accuracy of a stochastic semi-analytical method based on Gaussian noise statistics and a deterministic semi-analytical method where the noise probability density function is estimated analytically against Monte-Carlo simulation. Linear coherent PDM-QPSK systems with distortions induced by filtering only, and nonlinear coherent PDM-QPSK systems with or without inline dispersion compensation are studied. Our results suggest that the stochastic semi-analytical method based on Gaussian noise statistics works very well for practical fiber-optic communication systems.

© 2011 Optical Society of America