Abstract

Polarization mode dispersion (PMD) in optical fibers is a bandwidth-limitation mechanism beyond conventional chromatic dispersion, and therefore its management in modern fiber installations is essential for meeting the challenge of ever-increasing gigabit rates and also analog (CATV) transmission. An essential element of PMD control must be the initial determination of PMD in fiber, cables, installed links, etc., to permit understanding and necessary process improvements. Hence, several different methods for fiber PMD measurement have been proposed and are now entering active use in the development and production of advanced fibers. The purpose of this paper is to review both recent developments in fiber PMD measurement and the theoretical understanding of PMD.

© 1995 Optical Society of America