Abstract

A practical polarization controlling system for heterodyne fiber optic detection continuously matches the local oscillator (LO) polarization to the signal polarization to prevent signal fading. This polarization match must also be maintained during the reset of any constituent component. Polarization controlling systems have been demonstrated using mechanically induced birefringence, electrooptic crystals, Faraday rotators, rotating wave plates, and lithium niobate waveguides.^1–4 Difficulties associated with these systems include mechanical fatigue, high operating voltages, and excessive cost.

© 1990 Optical Society of America