Abstract

Polarization Mode Dispersion, PMD, is a parameter of great importance in modern optical communications. It imposes limitations on both digital (telecommunication) and analog (CATV) optical systems. System designers must understand well the subject of PMD for them to specify fibers and transmission equipments. On the other hand, fiber and cable manufacturers must develop products that satisfy the increasingly demanding specifications. Also, installation techniques have to be reviewed to guarantee that the PMD stays below acceptable levels. PMD arises from the combining effects of birefringence and polarization mode coupling in optical fibers. Birefringence represents the refractive index difference between the x and y orthogonal directions of the electrical field vibration. It causes temporal pulse spreading due to the slight difference between the propagation velocities of the two orthogonal polarization modes that constitute the light signal. Polarization mode coupling means energy transfer between the orthogonal polarization modes [1].

© 2005 Optical Society of America